Original Research J Clin Psychiatry May 2023

Head-to-Head Comparison of Vortioxetine Versus Desvenlafaxine in Patients With Major Depressive Disorder With Partial Response to SSRI Therapy: Results of the VIVRE Study

JCP 2023;84(4):10.4088/JCP.23m14780

Full Article Read the complete peer-reviewed article in J Clin Psychiatry. Clinical Summary Many patients with major depressive disorder have only a partial response to a first SSRI, leaving persistent symptoms, poor functioning, and low treatment satisfaction. This study addresses a common next-step decision in practice: whether switching to vortioxetine or to an SNRI offers better outcomes after incomplete SSRI benefit. FAQ In major depressive disorder with partial response to an SSRI, did vortioxetine work better than desvenlafaxine for depressive symptoms?

Key Takeaways This was a switch study in a clinically common population: adults aged 18–65 years with major depressive disorder, MADRS total score of ≥24, and only partial response after ≥6 weeks of escitalopram, sertraline, paroxetine, or citalopram, making the findings most applicable to patients with moderate-to-severe residual symptoms after a first SSRI. Clinical Guide How should clinicians switch adults with major depressive disorder and partial response to SSRI monotherapy to vortioxetine based on the VIVRE study? Clinical Guide How should clinicians choose and monitor a switch antidepressant for employed patients with major depressive disorder after partial SSRI response?