COMPARATIVE EFFECT OF AGOMELATINE VERSUS ESCITALOPRAM ON GLYCEMIC CONTROL AND SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION IN PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS AND DEPRESSION

Introduction: A bidirectional relationship exists between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and depression. There is dearth of research on comparative suitability of different antidepressants in people with T2DM and depression. Aim: To compare the effects of Escitalopram and Agomelatine on glycemic control and symptoms of depression in patients with T2DM and depression. Materials and Methods: We conducted a randomized, open label, parallel groups study. Patients diagnosed as T2DM with moderate to severe depression (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale Score ≥ 14) were randomized to receive either Escitalopram (10 mg daily) or Agomelatine (25 mg daily) along with antidiabetic agents as per American Diabetes Association (ADA), 2013 guidelines. Depression was assessed using HDRS and Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Results: Escitalopram group showed a significant reduction in FBG and HbA1Cvalues as compared to Agomelatine group at 1 and 2 months. HDRS scores of Escitalopram group were significantly lower than Agomelatine group at 1 and 2 months (8.85 ± 5.86 and15.6 ± 2.5 respectively). Similarly, Escitalopram group showed significantly lower MADRS scoresthan Agomelatine group at 1 and 2 months (13.6 ± 1.85 and 21.15 ± 2.34 respectively). Conclusion: Escitalopram seems to be better than Agomelatinefor glycemic control and ameliorating symptoms of depression in patients of T2DM and depression