Trial Information

Summary: Fluoxetine and bupropion for the treatment of Major Depression in persons who drink alcohol.

The Department of Neuroscience at the New York State Psychiatric Institute is conducting a research study on the use of medication in the treatment of depression and suicidal behavior in individuals who drink alcohol. The Department is looking for participants. The goal of the study is to determine the effectiveness of the drugs Prozac and Wellbutrin during a 6-month period. Both Prozac and Wellbutrin are Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder. Psychotherapy for alcohol misuse includes Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) and Relapse Prevention Therapy (RPT).

We are offering free outpatient medication monitoring visits at the Neuroscience Clinic for 6 months.

If you are interested, or have a family member who is suffering from Major Depressive Disorder and has a problem with alcohol, and would like further information, please call Lucia Sanchez-Diaz at 212-543-6216 or email at lsanchez@neuron.cpmc.columbia.edu

Patient Inclusion / Exclusion Criteria:

Inclusion Criteria

• Between 18 and 65 years old
• Currently in a Major Depressive Episode
• Alcohol dependence or abuse, past or current
• History of a past suicide attempt or current suicidal ideation
• Must live within the New York City metro area, since patients are required to come in regularly for psychopharmacological treatment visits

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of Bipolar Disorder
• Contraindication to Prozac or Wellbutrin

If you would like to learn more about participating in this study, please send an e-mail message using the form below.