Identifying genetic factors in children affected by antidepressant side effects
Official title: Pharmacogenetics of Antidepressant-Induced Disinhibition in Children Study
Run by University of Calgary · NCT03953014 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to find out if certain genes can help predict which children might have negative side effects from antidepressants, so doctors can better manage their treatment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 6 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Calgary Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Calgary, Alberta) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 2, 2019 |
| Main results expected | September 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | May 14, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT03953014 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 6 to 17 with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, or obsessive-compulsive disorder who have a history of SSRI therapy.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorder, or pervasive developmental disorder may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to identify pharmacogenetic profiles linked to behavioral disinhibition caused by selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in children diagnosed with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. By analyzing medical records and genetic samples from 120 children aged 6 to 17 who have undergone SSRI treatment, the study seeks to determine if there are distinct genetic markers that predict adverse behavioral reactions. The goal is to develop clinical tools that can help healthcare providers anticipate and mitigate these side effects, ultimately improving treatment outcomes for affected children.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to personalized treatment strategies that minimize adverse reactions to SSRIs in children.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of identifying pharmacogenetic profiles is gaining traction, this specific study is novel in its focus on SSRI-induced behavioral disinhibition in children.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Aged 6 - 24 years 2. Medical records available 3. Diagnosis of MDD, anxiety disorder, or OCD 4. Current or past history of SSRI therapy Exclusion Criteria: 1. Inability of parent/legal guardian to give informed consent 2. Inability of the child to give informed assent 3. Unwillingness of child to provide saliva sample for genetic analysis 4. Current, past or suspected diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorder, or pervasive developmental disorder.
Where it's running
-
Child and Adolescent Addiction, Mental Health & Psychiatry
Calgary, Alberta, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Chad Bousman, PhD — University of Calgary
- Study coordinator: Madison Heintz, MSW
- Email: psychpgxlab@ucalgary.ca
- Phone: 5875739747
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.