Ethnic Variations in Antidepressant Response

Depressed patients vary substantially in their responses to antidepressants. Genetic factors
may account for a large part of these differences in response. This study will include both
African Americans and Caucasians to examine the role of genetic factors in treatment
response.

Participants receive citalopram (Celexa) for 8 weeks and a placebo for 1 week. Visits occur
once a week for 11 weeks. A variety of interviews, scales, tests, and questionnaires are used
to assess participants.

Inclusion Criteria:

- DSM-IV criteria for Major Depression

- African-American or Caucasian ethnic background (both parents and 3 out of 4
grandparents)

Exclusion Criteria:

- Schizophrenia, schizophreniform disorder, schizoaffective disorder, schizotypal
disorder, psychotic depression, or bipolar disorder

- Current drug abuse or history of drug abuse within the past 6 months

- Unstable medical or neurological conditions that interfere with the treatment of
depression

- Allergy to citalopram

- Failure to respond to adequate citalopram drug trial (40 mg for at least 6 weeks)

- Seizure disorder

- Pregnancy

- Psychotropic medications, including antidepressants and neuroleptics

- Suicidal ideation or other safety issues

- Fluoxetine (Prozac) or MAOIs (Nardil, Parnate) in the last 2 months

- Ongoing cognitive behavioral therapy or intensive psychotherapy. General talk therapy
is acceptable