Pharmacogenomics of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)-Induced Behavioural Activation

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA · Jan 1, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how certain genetic markers may be linked to behavioral changes in children and teenagers who take selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a common type of antidepressant. The researchers want to find out why some young people experience increased activity or agitation after starting these medications, particularly those diagnosed with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. By identifying these genetic markers, the goal is to help predict who might be at risk for these side effects, potentially improving treatment and health outcomes.

To participate in the study, children aged 6 to 17 years old who live in Manitoba and have been diagnosed with major depressive disorder, an anxiety disorder, or obsessive-compulsive disorder may be eligible. They should have either experienced side effects from SSRIs that went away after adjusting their medication or have taken SSRIs without any side effects. Participants will provide a saliva sample for genetic testing and may undergo assessments related to their condition. The study is currently looking for participants, so this could be an opportunity for families seeking to better understand their treatment options.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• • Inclusion criteria: Participants will be eligible for participation if all of the following are true.
• • Resident of Manitoba
• • Age, 6 - 17 years
• • Diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD), anxiety disorder, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• • Current or past history of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), e.g., Citalopram \[Celexa\], Escitalopram \[Cipralex\], Fluoxetine \[Prozac\], Fluvoxamine \[Luvox\], Sertraline \[Zoloft\], Paroxetine \[Paxil/Plaxil CR\]) therapy
• • \[Cases Only\] Have experienced behavioural side effects after taking an SSRI that resolved after reducing the dose or discontinuation of the drug
• • \[Controls Only\] Did not experience any side effects after taking an SSRI for eight (8) continuous weeks
• • Exclusion criteria: Participants will be excluded from participation if any of the following are true.
• • Inability of parent/legal guardian/mature minors to give informed consent
• • Inability of the child (6 - 13 years) to give informed assent
• • Unwillingness of the child to provide a saliva sample for genetic analysis
• • Current, past, or suspected diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (combined or hyperactive type), oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder
• • History of liver or bone marrow (hematopoietic cell) transplant.