Date of Award
2025
Document Type
Capstone
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Committee Chair
Trey Boyd
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Major depressive disorder is a debilitating mental health condition for many US adults. Traditional therapies may not be effective for many patients. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effectiveness of brexpiprazole, a second generation antipsychotic medication, as an adjunctive treatment for resistant MDD.
METHODS: PubMed was searched with a specific search strategy using key terms “brexpiprazole” and “major depressive disorder.” This search resulted in 21 results in which four articles were chosen based on the availability of free full text and the included content. Of the articles selected, three were a systemic review and meta-analyses, and one was just a meta- analysis.
RESULTS: Two systematic reviews/meta-analyses and one meta-analysis compared the efficacy of various second generation antipsychotics to a placebo. One systematic review and meta-analysis studied only brexpiprazole and its efficacy and side effect profile.
DISCUSSION: All the articles reviewed showed brexpiprazole to improve symptoms of depression, though significant results are mixed. The downside to using SGAs as adjunct treatment is the various adverse effects. Brexpiprazole had one of the largest side effect profiles and highest discontinuation rates.
Recommended Citation
Russo, Gina, "Efficacy of Second Generation Antipsychotics as an Adjunct Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder" (2025). The PA Department Journal of Medical Science. 5.
https://digitalcommons.gardner-webb.edu/pa-department-journal-of-medical-science/5
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