Identifying genetic factors in children affected by antidepressant side effects

Pharmacogenetics of Antidepressant-Induced Disinhibition in Children Study

Observational University of Calgary · NCT03953014

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 typeObservational
Enrollment120 (estimated)
Ages6 Years to 17 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Calgary Academic / other
Locations1 site (Calgary, Alberta)
Trial IDNCT03953014 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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.

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.

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 performed: 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.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Calgary, Alberta

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 Obsessive-Compulsive DisorderAnxiety DisordersMajor Depressive DisorderAntidepressant Drug Adverse ReactionSSRIDepressionChildrenOCD
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.