Researchers will assess the clinical effects of buprenorphine in
treating LL-TRD while also determining optimal dosing strategies. This
type of depression is a common condition that has serious consequences
including worsened medical conditions, increased caregiver burden,
higher mortality rates and suicide.
“We observed that buprenorphine improved symptoms of depression for people who were taking the drug for other reasons,” said Jordan F. Karp, M.D., associate
professor of psychiatry, anesthesiology, and clinical and translational
science at the Pitt School of Medicine and principal investigator of
the study. “While it is unusual to use a narcotic to treat depression,
we are hopeful that using a low-dose of this drug will greatly improve
the lives of people who are suffering from this difficult disorder and
have not responded to other medications.”
Individuals age 50 or older, currently in an episode of major
depression, and not abusing alcohol or narcotics, may be eligible to
participate in this clinical trial. Participation involves a brain MRI.
Participants receive all interventions at no cost to them or their
insurance.
For more details regarding the study, please call 412-246-6021. All calls are confidential.