major depressive disorder - MGH Center for Women's Mental Health

Does Estrogen Affect Antidepressant Efficacy? Data from the STAR*D Study

We previously reported on studies suggesting estrogen may be helpful for the treatment of depression in peri- and post-menopausal women, either alone or in combination with an antidepressant. In addition, other studies have suggested that older, postmenopausal women may respond more poorly to antidepressants than premenopausal women. Two recent studies attempt to better understand the impact of reproductive hormones on clinical presentation and treatment response of depression in women.

By MGH Center for Women's Mental Health|2015-08-06T09:27:57-04:00July 10th, 2013|Menopausal Symptoms|0 Comments

Depression in Fathers: Toward a Better Understanding of Its Impact on the Child

While much research has demonstrated that maternal depression may negatively affect the child, leading to increased risk of developmental delays, behavioral problems, and psychiatric illness. Less research, however, has detailed the impact of paternal depression; several recent studies have focused on better understanding the risk factors for paternal depression and how paternal depression affects children.

By MGH Center for Women's Mental Health|2015-08-11T09:45:19-04:00October 23rd, 2012|Postpartum Psychiatric Disorders|0 Comments

What Would You Do? A Pregnant Women on Duloxetine (Cymbalta)

Ms. A is a 27-year-old woman who is seven weeks pregnant and is currently taking duloxetine (Cymbalta). She has a history of recurrent major depressive disorder (MDD) and has had a good response to duloxetine at 60 mg per day. She has had four previous episodes of major depressive disorder (most untreated) and has been in remission for one year. Past episodes have lasted up to six months and caused difficulty with functioning at work and in relationships, although she was not diagnosed and treated until one year ago.

By MGH Center for Women's Mental Health|2015-08-12T14:50:32-04:00June 29th, 2009|Psychiatric Disorders During Pregnancy|4 Comments