NCT07488910

Dynamic Networks in Depression Treatment: Mechanisms of Change in Pharmacological, Psychological and Combined Treatment of Depression

Veränderungen Dynamischer Symptom-Netzwerke Unter Pharmakologischer, Psychotherapeutischer Und Kombinierter Behandlung Bei Depression (DYNDET)

• Status: Not Yet Recruiting
• Phase: Phase 4
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 90 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Goethe University · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years – 65 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This study investigates how antidepressant pharmacotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or their combination modulate the temporal dynamics and connectivity of depressive symptom networks. Using intensive longitudinal ecological momentary assessment data, the trial examines treatment-specific changes in symptom interactions. By applying network-based analytic approaches, the study aims to elucidate differential and potentially complementary mechanisms of change across treatment modalities. Findings may contribute to more informed and individualized treatment strategies for major depressive disorder.

Conditions

• Depression - Major Depressive Disorder

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
DRUG	Psychopharmacological treatment	Participants will receive outpatient treatment with escitalopram. Treatment will be initiated at 5 mg/day for three days and increased to a target dose of 10 mg/day. Clinical re-evaluations will take place after two and four weeks. In case of insufficient clinical response, the dose may be increased to 15 mg/day in accordance with guideline recommendations.
BEHAVIORAL	Cognitive-behavioral group treatment (CBGT-D)	Consisting of a group treatment of the same time frame as the psychopharmacological treatment and includes the following components: psychoeducation, behavioral activation, cognitive restructuring, social problem-solving, homework assignments and relapse prevention.

Timeline

• Start date: 2026-02-01
• Primary completion: 2028-01-01
• Completion: 2028-01-01
• First posted: 2026-03-23
• Last updated: 2026-03-23

Locations

3 sites across 1 country: Germany