Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study of Geriatric Depression

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study of Treatment With Sertraline in Geriatric Depression

The purpose of this study was to use Magnetic Resonance Images to further our understanding of predictors and markers of treatment response and non-response in geriatric depression. We hypothesized that concentrations of high energy metabolites would be lower in depressed elderly compared to non-depressed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• DSM- IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition) diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder
• Hamilton Depression Scale- 17 item version score of 18 or higher
• Must speak English
• Women must be post-menopausal

Exclusion Criteria:

• A current or pervious psychiatric disorder other than MDD
• A current unstable medical condition
• A pacemaker or metal implant
• History of alcohol or drug dependence or abuse within the past year
• Current prescription of excluded medications
• Use of a drug within the last 30 days that was not approved for use by governmental authorities.
• If you or a family member works at McLean Hospital