The effects of vortioxetine on cognitive performance in working patients with major depressive disorder: A short-term, randomized, double-blind, exploratory study

Abstract

Background Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a complex disease characterized by emotional, physical and cognitive symptoms. We explored the efficacy of vortioxetine versus placebo on outcomes of cognition, functioning and mood symptoms in working patients with depression, using paroxetine as an active reference. Methods Gainfully employed patients (18–65 years, N = 152) with MDD were randomized 1:1:1 to 8 weeks’ double-blind, parallel treatment either with vortioxetine (10 mg/day) or paroxetine (20 mg/day), or with placebo. The primary efficacy measure was the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), analyzed using a mixed model for repeated measurements, and the key secondary efficacy measur..