Exploring the best diagnosis and treatment for major depressive disorder focusing on anhedonia

Study on the Optimal Diagnosis and Treatment Strategy of Major Depressive Disorder Based on Anhedonia

Not applicable Interventional Peking University · NCT05389046

This study is testing different treatment options for people with major depressive disorder who struggle with a lack of pleasure in life to see which ones work best.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment252 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 55 Years
SexAll
SponsorPeking University Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Beijing, Beijing and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05389046 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This multicenter clinical research investigates optimal diagnosis and treatment strategies for patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) who experience anhedonia. The study addresses the challenges of MDD, including the lack of objective diagnostic criteria and the inefficacy of first-line antidepressants for anhedonia. It evaluates the safety and efficacy of various treatment combinations, including escitalopram with aripiprazole and/or omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, while utilizing multidimensional data such as neuroimaging and inflammatory cytokines to inform treatment strategies.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-55 diagnosed with major depressive disorder who exhibit significant anhedonia.

Not a fit: Patients with other mental disorders, severe suicidal tendencies, or contraindications for MRI may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective and targeted treatment options for patients suffering from major depressive disorder with anhedonia.

How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research in this area, this study's specific approach to combining treatments based on anhedonia and inflammatory mechanisms is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Major depressive disorder according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edition) (DSM-5);
2. Age: 18-55 (including 18 and 55)
3. HAMD-17≥18
4. DARS ≤ 28
5. Do not receive repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) or modified electroconvulsive therapy (MECT) treatment in past six months.
6. Sign the informed consent form voluntarily and agree to participate in all visits, examinations and treatment as required by the trial protocol.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients who are diagnosed with major somatic diseases;
2. Patients who meet DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for other mental disorders: Personality disorder, mental retardation; drug and/or alcohol dependence;
3. Patients with severe suicidal tendencies or suicidal behavior;
4. Pregnant or lactating women;
5. Patients with MRI contraindications;
6. Patients who are regarded as unsuitable by investigators for this clinical trial.

Where this trial is running

Beijing, Beijing and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Outpatients / Inpatients With Depressionmajor depressive disorderanhedoniainflammatory immunereward systemoptimal treatmentneurotransmitter
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.