Effectiveness of Chromium in Atypical Depression: a Placebo-controlled Trial

Overview

Journal Biol Psychiatry

Publisher Elsevier

Specialty Psychiatry

Date 2003 Feb 1

PMID 12559660

Citations 19

Authors

Jonathan R T Davidson

Kurian Abraham

Kathryn M Connor

Malcolm N McLeod

Affiliations

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Abstract

Background: Chromium picolinate (CP) has been reported to benefit patients with symptoms of atypical depression.

Methods: A placebo-controlled, double-blind, pilot study of CP was conducted in 15 patients with DSM-IV major depressive disorder, atypical type. Patients received 600 micro g of CP or matching placebo (PBO) for 8 weeks.

Results: Seven (70%) CP and zero (0%) PBO patients met responder criteria (p =.02). Other outcomes were consistent with greater effect of CP. Three patients on CP failed to show any improvement. Chromium picolinate was well tolerated.

Conclusions: Chromium picolinate shows promising antidepressant effects in atypical depression. Its mechanism of action may relate to 5HT2A downregulation, increased insulin sensitivity, or to other effects.

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