Agomelatine efficacy in treatment resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a prevalent and burdensome mental health condition, often resistant to conventional treatments. Agomelatine (Valdoxan), a compound acting on serotonin and melatonin systems, has shown promise in treating those with treatment-resistant OCD based on anecdotal reports and case studies.

Methods

A randomized, double-blind controlled trial was conducted with 60 patients diagnosed with treatment-resistant OCD. Participants were randomized into an intervention group (receiving agomelatine 50 mg/day) and a control group (receiving placebo). OCD symptoms were assessed using the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) over a 12-week period.

Results

There were no significant differences in age, gender, or baseline Y-BOCS scores between intervention and control groups. Agomelatine did not demonstrate a significant improvement in OCD symptoms compared to placebo. Adverse events were comparable between groups, and liver enzyme levels remained within the normal range.

Conclusion

This study, while not confirming superior efficacy compared to placebo, underscores the need for continued investigation into agomelatine’s potential for treating specific subgroups of OCD patients, underscoring the need for more comprehensive and well-controlled trials in the future.