Lamotrigine in the treatment of recurrent brief depression

Int Clin Psychopharmacol. 2007 Mar;22(2):121-3. doi: 10.1097/YIC.0b013e328013f89d.

Abstract

Recurrent brief depression is a well-recognized subtype of depressive illness with brief episodes of depression alternating with periods of euthymia. The symptoms are often severe, with frequent association to suicidal ideation. Literature suggests frequent nonresponse to first-line antidepressants. Lamotrigine is an anticonvulsant with antidepressant properties, and reported effectiveness in bipolar depression. We report on two patients with recurrent brief depression, nonresponsive to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and venlafaxine, and who responded to therapeutic doses of lamotrigine.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anticonvulsants / therapeutic use
  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / drug therapy*
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Lamotrigine
  • Male
  • Recurrence
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Triazines / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Antidepressive Agents
  • Triazines
  • Lamotrigine