Hormone and Sleep Response to Antidepressant Treatment in Adolescents and Adults With Depression

Adolescent depression is a serious public health concern that may lead to functional
disability and death. The problems associated with the condition may continue into
adulthood; therefore, early identification and effective treatment of adolescent depression
is critical. Studies indicate that depressed adolescents experience greater variations in
sleep and hormone patterns than depressed adults. These variations may influence responses
to antidepressant treatment. This study will examine the mechanisms underlying developmental
differences in sleep and hormone patterns to develop a strategy for identifying adolescents
and adults who could benefit from antidepressant treatment.

This study will last approximately 10 weeks. At study start, participants will wear an
activity monitor on their wrist and keep track of their nightly sleep schedule to establish
baseline measures. This will continue for 2 weeks. During the second week of wearing this
watch the participant will be asked to come in for a sleep study. This study will consist of
two initial nights in the sleep lab and then two more nights in the lab a week later.
Participants will be able to leave during the day. Upon completing the sleep assessment,
participants will receive bupropion twice daily for 8 weeks. Upon completion of this 8-week
treatment, participants will be interviewed to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
One follow-up meeting will occur 6 months post-treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Diagnosis of major depressive disorder and/or dysthymic disorder

Exclusion Criteria:

- Current treatment with antidepressant drugs

- Major medical illness

- Diagnosis of anorexia nervosa or manic-depressive illness

- Pregnancy