OBJECTIVE: CSF levels of inositol have been reported to be lower than
normal in depressed subjects. The authors administered inositol to
depressed patients in a double-blind, controlled trial. METHOD: Under
double-blind conditions, 12 g/day of inositol (N = 13) or placebo (N = 15)
was administered to depressed patients for 4 weeks. RESULTS: The overall
improvement in scores on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale was
significantly greater for inositol than for placebo at week 4. No changes
were noted in hematology or in kidney or liver function. CONCLUSIONS: This
may be the first use of the precursor strategy for a second messenger
rather than a neurotransmitter in treating depression. Although inositol
had a significant antidepressant effect in this study, replication is
crucial.
Abstract Teaser