Key result
Paroxetine shows no benefit over placebo for depression, quality of life, or walking distance in severe COPD.
Why the study?
It was unclear whether treating concomitant depression improves quality of life and exercise tolerance in patients with moderate to severe COPD.
Does paroxetine improve quality of life and exercise tolerance in out-patients with moderate to severe COPD and depression?
RCT (n=28)
Double-blind
randomised
Does paroxetine improve quality of life and exercise tolerance in out-patients with moderate to severe COPD and depression?
A 6-week course of paroxetine did not significantly improve depression, quality of life, or exercise tolerance in severe COPD patients, though an open-label extension suggests longer treatment may be beneficial.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Paroxetine offers no short-term benefit in severe COPD; challenges routine SSRI use and leaves open longer treatment effects.
Eiser et al. (2005) conducted an RCT in moderate to severe, stable COPD with depression (n=28). Paroxetine vs. matched placebo was evaluated on depression, quality of life scores and 6-minute walking distances. Six weeks of paroxetine 20 mg daily produced no significant differences compared to placebo in depression, quality of life, or 6-minute walking distances in patients with severe COPD.
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