An open-label study of escitalopram in body dysmorphic disorder

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a relatively common and impairing disorder. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) appear selectively efficacious for BDD, but pharmacotherapy research is limited, and escitalopram has not been studied. Fifteen subjects with BDD were treated with escitalopram and assessed with reliable and valid measures. BDD symptoms significantly improved (P<0.001), and 73.3% (n=11) of subjects were responders. Of the subjects, 46.7% were very much improved, and 33.3% were much improved. Depressive symptoms, delusionality, functioning and quality of life also significantly improved. Escitalopram was well tolerated. These preliminary data suggest that escitalopram is safe and efficacious for BDD.