The efficacy of adjunctive N-acetylcysteine in major depressive disorder: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Berk M, et al
Published in Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
Methodology
Multicentre randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of adjunctive NAC 1 g twice daily for 12 weeks in major depressive disorder, with MADRS as primary outcome plus functioning and quality-of-life secondary measures.
Key Findings
Adjunctive N-acetylcysteine 2 g/day did not separate from placebo on MADRS depression scores at the week-12 primary endpoint, though improvements emerged on some secondary measures including functioning and at week 16 follow-up.
Conclusions
Being negative at the week 12 end point, and with some positive secondary signals, the study provides only limited support for the role of NAC as a novel adjunctive therapy for MDD.
Limitations
Negative primary endpoint with positive secondary signals raising multiple-comparison risk, high placebo response, gastrointestinal side effects, and 12 weeks may underestimate slower-acting effects.
Supplements Studied
Being negative at the week 12 end point, and with some positive secondary signals, the study provides only limited support for the role of NAC as a novel adjunctive therapy for MDD.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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