DeRubeis-Hollon
Cognitive Therapy vs Medications in Moderate-to-Severe Depression
Patient / Population Intervention / Exposure Comparison Outcome
In 240 outpatients with moderate-to-severe MDD, 16 weeks of cognitive therapy matched response and protected against relapse after taper compared with paroxetine or pill placebo.
N
240
Design
RCT + 12-month continuation, USA
Endpoint
HRSD response at 16 wk and 12-month relapse
Relevance
1
ResultAcute response 58% (CT) vs 58% (paroxetine) vs 25% (placebo). After withdrawal, relapse 31% (CT) vs 76% (medication taper).
DeRubeis RJ, et al. Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2005;62(4):409-416. 10.1001/archpsyc.62.4.409
Discussion & critique
First trial to show CT can match antidepressants in severe MDD and to deliver a durable post-treatment effect.