Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a significant contributor to global disability, projected to emerge as the leading cause of disability by 2030. While Antidepressants (ADTs) are a prevalent...Show moreMajor Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a significant contributor to global disability, projected to emerge as the leading cause of disability by 2030. While Antidepressants (ADTs) are a prevalent treatment option for MDD, their efficacy is constrained by low remission rates and undesirable side effects, prompting exploration of alternatives. In the last decade, the efficacy of nutraceuticals in MDD treatment has gained attention. However, there is a gap in research regarding direct comparison between the dropout rates in trials investigating the effect of ADTs and nutraceuticals on MDD. This study conducted a comprehensive comparison of efficacy and dropout rates among 17 types of ADTs and 3 types of nutraceuticals. Data were derived from RCTs included in the most recent meta-analyses on this subject. Due to a lack of previous studies on the dropout comparison of ADTs and nutraceuticals, no predictions were made in that regard. However, it was hypothesized that higher dropout rates would be associated with better treatment outcomes. The findings indicate that Nutraceuticals were more effective (Cohen’s d = -1.96, CI: -3.40 to -.53) in MDD treatment compared to ADTs (Cohen’s d = -.35, CI: -.39 to -.31). There were no significant differences in dropout rates between ADTs and nutraceuticals, except within control groups, where nutraceuticals demonstrated lower dropout rates (M =.13) compared to ADTs (M =.28). Furthermore, no relationship between dropout rates and treatment outcomes was observed, except within the ADTs control group where higher dropout rates corresponded to lower treatment outcomes (t (1,144) = -2.91, p = .004). This study shows the comparative efficacy and dropout dynamics of ADTs and nutraceuticals in the treatment of MDD.Show less
