Effectiveness and side-effect profile of Vilazodone and Escitalopram in major Depressive Disorder – An observational study

Abstract

Background : Major depressive disorder (MDD) is characterized by a cluster of emotional, behavioral, and cognitive features causing functional impairment. Escitalopram and Vilazodone are approved drugs in management of MDD. Escitalopram is found to be efficacious in patients with MDD. However, sexual dysfunction and weight gain are of a primary concern leading to discontinuation of treatment. Vilazodone is efficacious for patients who do not respond to SSRI/SNRI monotherapy. Evidence suggests it to be associated with a better side effect profile. Aim : To study the effectiveness and side effect profile of vilazodone and escitalopram in patients diagnosed with MDD. Materials and Methods : All patients diagnosed with MDD and commenced for the first time on vilazodone or escitalopram were included in the study via purposive sampling. Effectiveness and side effect profiles of the patients were studied by applying HAM-D and ASEC, respectively, at baseline, at weeks 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8. Results : There was a statistically significant difference in weeks 2, 4, and 6 for both the drugs. On intergroup comparison, no significant difference was found in terms of response rates. The number of side-effects was more in the escitalopram group. Conclusion : Taken together with our results, vilazodone appears to be equally effective as escitalopram in treating patients of MDD. However, vilazodone has the advantage of better tolerability as compared to escitalopram. Key messages: Vilazodone was found to be equally effective as escitalopram in patients with MDD and has the advantage of better tolerability as compared to escitalopram.