DepressionPhase 2NCT00214682
Beyond Ageing Project: A Study for the Prevention of Depression
A Phase 2 study testing Folate (400mcg) and Vitamin B12 (100 mcg), mediated physical activity promotion and Mental health literacy in people with Depression and Depressive Disorder, run by Australian National University at 1 site in Australia.
Trial summary
The purpose of this study is to determine whether folate and vitamin B12, physical activity and mental health literacy can prevent depression, and folate and vitamin B12 and physical activity can prevent cognitive impairment in older people. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 65 to 74 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Depression, Depressive Disorder
- What is being tested?
- Folate (400mcg) and Vitamin B12 (100 mcg), mediated physical activity promotion and Mental health literacy
- Type of treatment
- Pill or oral medicine, Lifestyle or therapy programme
- Could I receive a placebo?
- Yes, some participants may receive a placebo
- How many people
- 909 participants
- Where
- 1 siteAustralia
- Study dates
- Oct 2005to Jan 2011
- Phase
- Phase 2
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 65 to 74 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Older adult
Who may be able to join
- Aged 65-74 years with some depressive symptoms, assessed using the Kessler 10 Psychological Distress Scale [K10] (Andrews \& Slade, 2001)
Who cannot join
- Any of the following:
- Those currently taking medication or receiving psychological treatment for depression
- A report of a medical diagnosis of bipolar disorder/mania
- History of epilepsy
- Diagnosed with cancer and/or on antifolate therapy
- Have a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer's disease
Show all 9Show fewer
- Are currently taking vitamin supplements containing folate, B2, B6 or B12 at a dose exceeding 25% of the recommended daily intake.
- Medical contradictions to exercise (e.g., significant orthopaedic problems or cardiovascular disease that would prevent regular aerobic exercise)
- Ongoing participation in regular aerobic exercise.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
Australia1 site
Australian National University
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, 0200
About this study
Official title: Beyond Ageing Project: A RCT to Assess the Benefit of Improving Mental Health Literacy as Well as the Effect of Folate and B12, and Physical Activity, in Preventing Major Depression and Cognitive Decline Among Older Australians
The purpose of this study is to determine whether folate and vitamin B12, physical activity and mental health literacy can prevent depression, and folate and vitamin B12 and physical activity can prevent cognitive impairment in older people. Also the study aims to assess the benefits for older people in improving their knowledge about mental health in relation to depression.
Read the detailed description
While preventive efforts for depression have tended to focus on adolescent and young adult populations, other stages of the lifespan also provide opportunities for prevention. With older people, there are certain risk and aetiological factors, which become more prominent and require preventive action at that point in the lifespan. The aim of this study is to determine the efficacy of various interventions in preventing depression and cognitive decline among older people who are at high risk of developing major depression because they are currently suffering from depressive symptoms.
The study has three interventions; i) folate and vitamin B12, ii) physical activity; and iii) mental health literacy. Participants will be randomly allocated to receive each combination of the interventions (folate and vitamin B12 or placebo, physical activity intervention programme or physical activity no-intervention control, mental health literacy intervention [containing written modules with information about depression that is relevant to older people] or mental health literacy no-intervention control group). Participants will receive these interventions over a two-year period with regular assessments across that time period.
- Conditions
- Depression, Depressive Disorder
- Being tested
- Folate (400mcg) and Vitamin B12 (100 mcg), mediated physical activity promotion, Mental health literacy, placebo, Nutrition information
- Keywords
- Depression, Cognition, Depressive disorder, Mental health literacy, Older adults, Randomzed controlled trial
- Medical subject headings
- Depression, Depressive Disorder
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Folate (400mcg) and Vitamin B12 (100 mcg)Drug
The vitamin intervention was a daily oral dose of one tablet consisting of folic acid 400 mcg + vitamin B12 100 mcg. The folic acid dose of 400 mcg / day was selected as it has been shown to be the dose associated with 90% of the maximal decrease in plasma homocysteine concentration for older individuals. Participants received 1 bottle x 200 tablets in six-month supplies at baseline, 6 months, 12 months, and 18 months. Adherence was monitored by telephone interviews (6 weeks, 6-, 12-, and 24 months) and 10 brief telephone tracking calls (1 - 5 weeks, and 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22-months).
mediated physical activity promotionBehavioural
Individuals in the Physical Activity Promotion group received a manual designed to promote older individuals' physical activity participation to the level recommended to gain both physical and mental health benefits. The framework of the physical activity manual was informed by social cognitive theory and the transtheoretical model, and comprised five sections that reflect stages of behaviour change, including; precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. The manual contained evidence-based strategies and skills to assist people in increasing their physical activity levels. Participants received a pedometer at the commencement of the intervention as pedometry step / minute values are useful as an indicator of moderate to vigorous physical activity with total number of steps for one week recorded during the brief telephone calls at 1-5 weeks, and 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22- months.
Mental health literacyBehavioural
Comprises 10 modules, with nine of these specifically written for older adults. Modules 1 to 5 comprised information on depression and the evidence-based treatment for older adults. The additional MHL modules were booklets addressing evidence-based strategies and treatments for depression. It was delivered in a way to foster support and ensure that participants worked through the material systematically. Modules 1 to 5 were delivered in consecutive weeks as previous research indicates that the maximum impact of MHL on depressive symptoms may occur within the first six weeks of the intervention. Telephone interviewers contacted participants once a week for 5 consecutive weeks to motivate and support participants. There were an additional 5 check-in telephone calls, and Modules 6 to 10 of the MHL material that were delivered via postal mail at 4- (Module 6), 8- (Module 7), 13- (Module 8), 18- (Module 9), and 22- months (Module 10).
placeboDrug
Also called placebo tablet
A placebo tablet was the attention control intervention for the folic acid + vitamin B12 intervention group. Participants received 1 bottle x 200 tablets in 6-month supplies at baseline, 6 months, 12 months, and 18 months. Adherence was monitored by telephone interviews (6 weeks, 6-, 12-, and 24 months) and 10 brief telephone tracking calls (1 - 5 weeks, and 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22-months) during which participants counted their left-over tablets.
Nutrition informationBehavioural
The attention control intervention for the physical activity intervention was printed nutrition literacy and included information concerning the recommended dietary guidelines for older Australians, as well as strategies and additional information to facilitate beneficial dietary behaviours. The same procedure was adhered to as the physical activity intervention to ensure adequate attention control. Participants in the nutrition promotion intervention received 5 brief telephone calls from an interviewer to facilitate adherence to the intervention, and to offer support and clarification of the materials. Participants received five further brief telephone calls as well as nutrition newsletters that were delivered via postal mail at 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22- months.
pain and arthritis management informationBehavioural
Pain and Arthritis Information was used as the attention control intervention for the MHL intervention and comprised 10 modules. Modules 1 to 5 were contained in an Arthritis Australia consumer guide for arthritis management. Modules 6 to 10 were a series of information pamphlets on pain management, osteoporosis and falls prevention. The delivery of the Pain Information was identical to the MHL intervention with Modules 1 to 5 distributed via postal mail in five consecutive weeks (1-5 weeks), while the remaining intervention modules were delivered at 4- (Module 6), 8- (Module 7), 13- (Module 8), 18- (Module 9), and 22- months (Module 10). Participants also received 10 brief calls from a telephone interviewer that coincided with receiving the print intervention materials.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Folic acid (400mcg) + Vitamin B12 (100 mcg) | Experimental | The vitamin intervention was a daily oral dose of one tablet consisting of folic acid 400 mcg + vitamin B12 100 mcg. The folic acid dose of 400 mcg / day was selected as it has been shown to be the dose associated with 90% of the maximal decrease in plasma homocysteine concentration for older individuals. Participants received 1 bottle x 200 tablets in six-month supplies at baseline, 6 months, 12 months, and 18 months. Adherence was monitored by telephone interviews (6 weeks, 6-, 12-, and 24 months) and 10 brief telephone tracking calls (1 - 5 weeks, and 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22-months). Receives: Drug: Folate (400mcg) and Vitamin B12 (100 mcg) |
| Mediated physical activity promotion | Experimental | Individuals in the Physical Activity Promotion group received a manual designed to promote older individuals' physical activity participation to the level recommended to gain both physical and mental health benefits. The framework of the physical activity manual was informed by social cognitive theory and the transtheoretical model, and comprised five sections that reflect stages of behaviour change, including; precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. The manual contained evidence-based strategies and skills to assist people in increasing their physical activity levels. Participants received a pedometer at the commencement of the intervention as pedometry step / minute values are useful as an indicator of moderate to vigorous physical activity with total number of steps for one week recorded during the brief telephone calls at 1-5 weeks, and 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22- months. Receives: Behavioral: mediated physical activity promotion |
| Mental health literacy | Experimental | This MHL intervention comprised 10 modules, with nine of these specifically written for older adults. Modules 1 to 5 comprised information on depression and the evidence-based treatment for older adults. The additional MHL modules were booklets addressing evidence-based strategies and treatments for depression. It was delivered in a way to foster support and ensure that participants worked through the material systematically. Modules 1 to 5 were delivered in consecutive weeks as previous research indicates that the maximum impact of MHL on depressive symptoms may occur within the first six weeks of the intervention. Telephone interviewers contacted participants once a week for 5 consecutive weeks to motivate and support participants. There were an additional 5 check-in telephone calls, and Modules 6 to 10 of the MHL material that were delivered via postal mail at 4- (Module 6), 8- (Module 7), 13- (Module 8), 18- (Module 9), and 22- months (Module 10). Receives: Behavioral: Mental health literacy |
| Placebo tablet | Placebo comparator | A placebo tablet was the attention control intervention for the folic acid + vitamin B12 intervention group. Participants received 1 bottle x 200 tablets in 6-month supplies at baseline, 6 months, 12 months, and 18 months. Adherence was monitored by telephone interviews (6 weeks, 6-, 12-, and 24 months) and 10 brief telephone tracking calls (1 - 5 weeks, and 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22-months) during which participants counted their left-over tablets. Receives: Drug: placebo |
| Nutrition information | Active comparator | The attention control intervention for the physical activity intervention was printed nutrition literacy and included information concerning the recommended dietary guidelines for older Australians, as well as strategies and additional information to facilitate beneficial dietary behaviours. The same procedure was adhered to as the physical activity intervention to ensure adequate attention control. Participants in the nutrition promotion intervention received 5 brief telephone calls from an interviewer to facilitate adherence to the intervention, and to offer support and clarification of the materials. Participants received five further brief telephone calls as well as nutrition newsletters that were delivered via postal mail at 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22- months. Receives: Behavioral: Nutrition information |
| Pain and arthritis management information | Active comparator | Pain and Arthritis Information was used as the attention control intervention for the MHL intervention and comprised 10 modules. Modules 1 to 5 were contained in an Arthritis Australia consumer guide for arthritis management. Modules 6 to 10 were a series of information pamphlets on pain management, osteoporosis and falls prevention. The delivery of the Pain Information was identical to the MHL intervention with Modules 1 to 5 distributed via postal mail in five consecutive weeks (1-5 weeks), while the remaining intervention modules were delivered at 4- (Module 6), 8- (Module 7), 13- (Module 8), 18- (Module 9), and 22- months (Module 10). Participants also received 10 brief calls from a telephone interviewer that coincided with receiving the print intervention materials. Receives: Behavioral: pain and arthritis management information |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Depression
The Patient Health Questionnaire - 9 (PHQ - 9) is a brief self-administered diagnostic instrument for depressive symptoms with items derived from the nine diagnostic criteria for Major Depression Disorder using the DSM - IV. The items are coded "0" (not at all) to "3" (nearly every day) for the most recent 2-week period, with possible scores ranging from 0 to 27, higher scores indicating greater depression severity. The PHQ - 9 is used in research and clinical settings, and can be administered via telephone. Studies support its reliability, validity, and ability to detect change over time.
Measured: Baseline, 6 weeks, 6-, 12-, 48-, and 51 month followups.
Secondary outcomes (6)
Physical activity level
The International Physical Activity Questionnaire - Short Form (IPAQ - SF) was used as a self-report measure of physical activity. The purpose of the IPAQ is to survey physical activity in large groups or populations. The IPAQ allows for a total of metabolic equivalent (MET) units expended in the most recent seven-day period.
Measured: Baseline, 6 weeks, 6-, 12-, 48-, and 51 month followups.
Cognitive impairment
The modified Telephone Interview of Cognitive Status has a max. total score= 39, and comprises 4 domains: orientation; recent memory and delayed recall; attention; and, semantic memory. It has excellent discrimination in cognitive performance in the general population. Processing speed was measured (Brief Test of Adult Cognition-Telephone) with the task to count backwards quickly from 100 by 1's for 30 seconds The Informant Questionnaire on Cognitive Decline in the Elderly was given at 2yr FU to a person who had known the participant for > 2yrs. It measures cognitive decline and dementia.
Measured: Baseline, 12-, and 48-month followups.
Physical health outcomes
A health checklist was given to determine current health status with items addressing the following health domains: cardiovascular, pulmonary, musculoskeletal, psychiatric, vision, and renal health; cancer, diabetes, and epilepsy. Blood collections were also used at baseline, 12- and 24 months to further investigate health including: thyroid stimulating hormone; liver and kidney function; fasting cholesterol and blood glucose; C-reactive protein; and haematological parameters.
Measured: Baseline, 6-week, 6-, 12-, 24-, and 48-month followups.
B12 levels
Serum vitamin B12 was measured using chemiluminscent microparticle assays (Architect i2000, Abbott Laboratories). This allowed a check on whether participants were taking the supplements, and to initially to comply with inclusion/exclusion criteria.
Measured: Baseline, 12-, and 48-month followups.
Folate status
Red cell folate was measured using chemiluminscent microparticle assays (Architect i2000, Abbott Laboratories). This allowed a check on whether participants were taking the supplements, and as part of the initial screening process to comply with our inclusion/exclusion criteria.
Measured: Baseline, 12-, and 48-month followups.
Homocysteine
A fluorescence polarization immunoassay was used for the quantitative determination of total L-homocysteine in plasma (AxSYM, Abbott Laboratories). This allowed us to establish any changes in Hcy concentration.
Measured: Baseline, 12- and 24-month followups.
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted22 Sep 2005 (estimated)
- Study startOct 2005
- Primary completionJan 2011
- Study completionJan 2011
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (3)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for DepressionStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase 2
- Primary purpose
- Prevention
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Factorial
- Masking
- Triple blind
- Who is masked
- Participant, Investigator, Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 909 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Australian National University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Collaborators
- Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing, University of Sydney, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Australia
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Dr Janine Walker, Australian National University
- Investigators
- Professor Helen Christensen, PhD, Principal investigator, Centre for Mental Health Research, ANUProfessor Anthony F Jorm, PhD, Principal investigator, ORYGEN Research Centre, University of MelbourneProfessor Ian Hickie, PhD, Principal investigator, Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of SydneyDr Janine G Walker, PhD, Principal investigator, Centre for Mental Health Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT00214682
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- 2004/188 HREC
- Other IDs
- 2005/483 (TGA)
- Status last verified
- Sep 2011
- First submitted
- 14 Sep 2005
- Last updated
- 13 Sep 2011
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- Yes
Publications
Walker JG, Batterham PJ, Mackinnon AJ, Jorm AF, Hickie I, Fenech M, Kljakovic M, Crisp D, Christensen H. Oral folic acid and vitamin B-12 supplementation to prevent cognitive decline in community-dwelling older adults with depressive symptoms--the Beyond Ageing Project: a randomized controlled trial. Am J Clin Nutr. 2012 Jan;95(1):194-203. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.110.007799. Epub 2011 Dec 14.
PubMed 22170358Christensen H, Aiken A, Batterham PJ, Walker J, Mackinnon AJ, Fenech M, Hickie IB. No clear potentiation of antidepressant medication effects by folic acid+vitamin B12 in a large community sample. J Affect Disord. 2011 Apr;130(1-2):37-45. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2010.07.029.
PubMed 20805005Walker JG, Mackinnon AJ, Batterham P, Jorm AF, Hickie I, McCarthy A, Fenech M, Christensen H. Mental health literacy, folic acid and vitamin B12, and physical activity for the prevention of depression in older adults: randomised controlled trial. Br J Psychiatry. 2010 Jul;197(1):45-54. doi: 10.1192/bjp.bp.109.075291.
PubMed 20592433
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 13 Sep 2011. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Beyond Ageing Project: A RCT to Assess the Benefit of Improving Mental Health Literacy as Well as the Effect of Folate and B12, and Physical Activity, in Preventing Major Depression and Cognitive Decline Among Older Australians
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT00214682
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- 2004/188 HREC
- Conditions
- Depression, Depressive Disorder
- Keywords
- Depression, Cognition, Depressive disorder, Mental health literacy, Older adults, Randomzed controlled trial
- Phase
- Phase 2
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 909 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Australian National UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Collaborators
- Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing, University of Sydney, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Australia
- Study start
- Oct 2005
- Primary completion
- Jan 2011 (actual)
- Study completion
- Jan 2011 (actual)
- First posted
- 22 Sep 2005 (estimated)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
The purpose of this study is to determine whether folate and vitamin B12, physical activity and mental health literacy can prevent depression, and folate and vitamin B12 and physical activity can prevent cognitive impairment in older people. Also the study aims to assess the benefits for older people in improving their knowledge about mental health in relation to depression.
Detailed description
While preventive efforts for depression have tended to focus on adolescent and young adult populations, other stages of the lifespan also provide opportunities for prevention. With older people, there are certain risk and aetiological factors, which become more prominent and require preventive action at that point in the lifespan. The aim of this study is to determine the efficacy of various interventions in preventing depression and cognitive decline among older people who are at high risk of developing major depression because they are currently suffering from depressive symptoms.
The study has three interventions; i) folate and vitamin B12, ii) physical activity; and iii) mental health literacy. Participants will be randomly allocated to receive each combination of the interventions (folate and vitamin B12 or placebo, physical activity intervention programme or physical activity no-intervention control, mental health literacy intervention [containing written modules with information about depression that is relevant to older people] or mental health literacy no-intervention control group). Participants will receive these interventions over a two-year period with regular assessments across that time period.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Prevention
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Factorial
- Masking
- Triple blind (participant, investigator, outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 6
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Folic acid (400mcg) + Vitamin B12 (100 mcg) | Experimental | Drug: Folate (400mcg) and Vitamin B12 (100 mcg)The vitamin intervention was a daily oral dose of one tablet consisting of folic acid 400 mcg + vitamin B12 100 mcg. The folic acid dose of 400 mcg / day was selected as it has been shown to be the dose associated with 90% of the maximal decrease in plasma homocysteine concentration for older individuals. Participants received 1 bottle x 200 tablets in six-month supplies at baseline, 6 months, 12 months, and 18 months. Adherence was monitored by telephone interviews (6 weeks, 6-, 12-, and 24 months) and 10 brief telephone tracking calls (1 - 5 weeks, and 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22-months). |
| Mediated physical activity promotion | Experimental | Behavioral: mediated physical activity promotionIndividuals in the Physical Activity Promotion group received a manual designed to promote older individuals' physical activity participation to the level recommended to gain both physical and mental health benefits. The framework of the physical activity manual was informed by social cognitive theory and the transtheoretical model, and comprised five sections that reflect stages of behaviour change, including; precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. The manual contained evidence-based strategies and skills to assist people in increasing their physical activity levels. Participants received a pedometer at the commencement of the intervention as pedometry step / minute values are useful as an indicator of moderate to vigorous physical activity with total number of steps for one week recorded during the brief telephone calls at 1-5 weeks, and 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22- months. |
| Mental health literacy | Experimental | Behavioral: Mental health literacyThis MHL intervention comprised 10 modules, with nine of these specifically written for older adults. Modules 1 to 5 comprised information on depression and the evidence-based treatment for older adults. The additional MHL modules were booklets addressing evidence-based strategies and treatments for depression. It was delivered in a way to foster support and ensure that participants worked through the material systematically. Modules 1 to 5 were delivered in consecutive weeks as previous research indicates that the maximum impact of MHL on depressive symptoms may occur within the first six weeks of the intervention. Telephone interviewers contacted participants once a week for 5 consecutive weeks to motivate and support participants. There were an additional 5 check-in telephone calls, and Modules 6 to 10 of the MHL material that were delivered via postal mail at 4- (Module 6), 8- (Module 7), 13- (Module 8), 18- (Module 9), and 22- months (Module 10). |
| Placebo tablet | Placebo comparator | Drug: placeboA placebo tablet was the attention control intervention for the folic acid + vitamin B12 intervention group. Participants received 1 bottle x 200 tablets in 6-month supplies at baseline, 6 months, 12 months, and 18 months. Adherence was monitored by telephone interviews (6 weeks, 6-, 12-, and 24 months) and 10 brief telephone tracking calls (1 - 5 weeks, and 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22-months) during which participants counted their left-over tablets. |
| Nutrition information | Active comparator | Behavioral: Nutrition informationThe attention control intervention for the physical activity intervention was printed nutrition literacy and included information concerning the recommended dietary guidelines for older Australians, as well as strategies and additional information to facilitate beneficial dietary behaviours. The same procedure was adhered to as the physical activity intervention to ensure adequate attention control. Participants in the nutrition promotion intervention received 5 brief telephone calls from an interviewer to facilitate adherence to the intervention, and to offer support and clarification of the materials. Participants received five further brief telephone calls as well as nutrition newsletters that were delivered via postal mail at 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22- months. |
| Pain and arthritis management information | Active comparator | Behavioral: pain and arthritis management informationPain and Arthritis Information was used as the attention control intervention for the MHL intervention and comprised 10 modules. Modules 1 to 5 were contained in an Arthritis Australia consumer guide for arthritis management. Modules 6 to 10 were a series of information pamphlets on pain management, osteoporosis and falls prevention. The delivery of the Pain Information was identical to the MHL intervention with Modules 1 to 5 distributed via postal mail in five consecutive weeks (1-5 weeks), while the remaining intervention modules were delivered at 4- (Module 6), 8- (Module 7), 13- (Module 8), 18- (Module 9), and 22- months (Module 10). Participants also received 10 brief calls from a telephone interviewer that coincided with receiving the print intervention materials. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 65 to 74 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (1 listed)
- Aged 65-74 years with some depressive symptoms, assessed using the Kessler 10 Psychological Distress Scale [K10] (Andrews \& Slade, 2001)
Key exclusion criteria (9 listed)
- Those currently taking medication or receiving psychological treatment for depression
- A report of a medical diagnosis of bipolar disorder/mania
- History of epilepsy
- Diagnosed with cancer and/or on antifolate therapy
- Have a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer's disease
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Folate (400mcg) and Vitamin B12 (100 mcg)The vitamin intervention was a daily oral dose of one tablet consisting of folic acid 400 mcg + vitamin B12 100 mcg. The folic acid dose of 400 mcg / day was selected as it has been shown to be the dose associated with 90% of the maximal decrease in plasma homocysteine concentration for older individuals. Participants received 1 bottle x 200 tablets in six-month supplies at baseline, 6 months, 12 months, and 18 months. Adherence was monitored by telephone interviews (6 weeks, 6-, 12-, and 24 months) and 10 brief telephone tracking calls (1 - 5 weeks, and 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22-months). | Drug | Folic acid (400mcg) + Vitamin B12 (100 mcg) |
| mediated physical activity promotionIndividuals in the Physical Activity Promotion group received a manual designed to promote older individuals' physical activity participation to the level recommended to gain both physical and mental health benefits. The framework of the physical activity manual was informed by social cognitive theory and the transtheoretical model, and comprised five sections that reflect stages of behaviour change, including; precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. The manual contained evidence-based strategies and skills to assist people in increasing their physical activity levels. Participants received a pedometer at the commencement of the intervention as pedometry step / minute values are useful as an indicator of moderate to vigorous physical activity with total number of steps for one week recorded during the brief telephone calls at 1-5 weeks, and 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22- months. | Behavioural | Mediated physical activity promotion |
| Mental health literacyComprises 10 modules, with nine of these specifically written for older adults. Modules 1 to 5 comprised information on depression and the evidence-based treatment for older adults. The additional MHL modules were booklets addressing evidence-based strategies and treatments for depression. It was delivered in a way to foster support and ensure that participants worked through the material systematically. Modules 1 to 5 were delivered in consecutive weeks as previous research indicates that the maximum impact of MHL on depressive symptoms may occur within the first six weeks of the intervention. Telephone interviewers contacted participants once a week for 5 consecutive weeks to motivate and support participants. There were an additional 5 check-in telephone calls, and Modules 6 to 10 of the MHL material that were delivered via postal mail at 4- (Module 6), 8- (Module 7), 13- (Module 8), 18- (Module 9), and 22- months (Module 10). | Behavioural | Mental health literacy |
| placeboAlso: placebo tabletA placebo tablet was the attention control intervention for the folic acid + vitamin B12 intervention group. Participants received 1 bottle x 200 tablets in 6-month supplies at baseline, 6 months, 12 months, and 18 months. Adherence was monitored by telephone interviews (6 weeks, 6-, 12-, and 24 months) and 10 brief telephone tracking calls (1 - 5 weeks, and 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22-months) during which participants counted their left-over tablets. | Drug | Placebo tablet |
| Nutrition informationThe attention control intervention for the physical activity intervention was printed nutrition literacy and included information concerning the recommended dietary guidelines for older Australians, as well as strategies and additional information to facilitate beneficial dietary behaviours. The same procedure was adhered to as the physical activity intervention to ensure adequate attention control. Participants in the nutrition promotion intervention received 5 brief telephone calls from an interviewer to facilitate adherence to the intervention, and to offer support and clarification of the materials. Participants received five further brief telephone calls as well as nutrition newsletters that were delivered via postal mail at 4-, 8-, 13-, 18-, and 22- months. | Behavioural | Nutrition information |
| pain and arthritis management informationPain and Arthritis Information was used as the attention control intervention for the MHL intervention and comprised 10 modules. Modules 1 to 5 were contained in an Arthritis Australia consumer guide for arthritis management. Modules 6 to 10 were a series of information pamphlets on pain management, osteoporosis and falls prevention. The delivery of the Pain Information was identical to the MHL intervention with Modules 1 to 5 distributed via postal mail in five consecutive weeks (1-5 weeks), while the remaining intervention modules were delivered at 4- (Module 6), 8- (Module 7), 13- (Module 8), 18- (Module 9), and 22- months (Module 10). Participants also received 10 brief calls from a telephone interviewer that coincided with receiving the print intervention materials. | Behavioural | Pain and arthritis management information |
Primary outcome
Depression
Time frame: Baseline, 6 weeks, 6-, 12-, 48-, and 51 month followups.
The Patient Health Questionnaire - 9 (PHQ - 9) is a brief self-administered diagnostic instrument for depressive symptoms with items derived from the nine diagnostic criteria for Major Depression Disorder using the DSM - IV. The items are coded "0" (not at all) to "3" (nearly every day) for the most recent 2-week period, with possible scores ranging from 0 to 27, higher scores indicating greater depression severity. The PHQ - 9 is used in research and clinical settings, and can be administered via telephone. Studies support its reliability, validity, and ability to detect change over time.
6 secondary outcomes
Physical activity level
Time frame: Baseline, 6 weeks, 6-, 12-, 48-, and 51 month followups.
Cognitive impairment
Time frame: Baseline, 12-, and 48-month followups.
Physical health outcomes
Time frame: Baseline, 6-week, 6-, 12-, 24-, and 48-month followups.
B12 levels
Time frame: Baseline, 12-, and 48-month followups.
Folate status
Time frame: Baseline, 12-, and 48-month followups.
Homocysteine
Time frame: Baseline, 12- and 24-month followups.
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 13 Sep 2011.
- Derived from this study: PubMed 22170358Walker JG, Batterham PJ, Mackinnon AJ, Jorm AF, Hickie I, Fenech M, Kljakovic M, Crisp D, Christensen H. Oral folic acid and vitamin B-12 supplementation to prevent cognitive decline in community-dwelling older adults with depressive symptoms--the Beyond Ageing Project: a randomized controlled trial. Am J Clin Nutr. 2012 Jan;95(1):194-203. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.110.007799. Epub 2011 Dec 14.
- Derived from this study: PubMed 20805005Christensen H, Aiken A, Batterham PJ, Walker J, Mackinnon AJ, Fenech M, Hickie IB. No clear potentiation of antidepressant medication effects by folic acid+vitamin B12 in a large community sample. J Affect Disord. 2011 Apr;130(1-2):37-45. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2010.07.029.
- Derived from this study: PubMed 20592433Walker JG, Mackinnon AJ, Batterham P, Jorm AF, Hickie I, McCarthy A, Fenech M, Christensen H. Mental health literacy, folic acid and vitamin B12, and physical activity for the prevention of depression in older adults: randomised controlled trial. Br J Psychiatry. 2010 Jul;197(1):45-54. doi: 10.1192/bjp.bp.109.075291.
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
Professor Helen Christensen, PhD principal investigator
Centre for Mental Health Research, ANU
Professor Anthony F Jorm, PhD principal investigator
ORYGEN Research Centre, University of Melbourne
Professor Ian Hickie, PhD principal investigator
Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A Phase 2 study testing Folate (400mcg) and Vitamin B12 (100 mcg), mediated physical activity promotion and Mental health literacy in people with Depression and Depressive Disorder, run by Australian National University at 1 site in Australia.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 1 inclusion and 9 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 13 Sep 2011. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Australia. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. Some participants in this study may receive a placebo. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
What does this phase mean?
Phase 2 studies give the treatment to a larger group to see whether it has the intended effect and to keep checking safety.
Not every study follows the same path, and some studies (observational studies, device studies) have no phase.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Depression (time frame: Baseline, 6 weeks, 6-, 12-, 48-, and 51 month followups.). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT00214682, which also lists 3 linked publications.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 13 Sep 2011.