AzTrials
AzTrials

Depressive Disorder, MajorPhase 3ESCAPE-TRDNCT04338321

A Long-term Comparison of Esketamine Nasal Spray Versus Quetiapine Extended Release, Both in Combination With a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor/Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor, in Participants With Treatment Resistant Major Depressive Disorder

A Phase 3 study testing Esketamine 28 mg, Esketamine 56 mg and Esketamine 84 mg in people with Depressive Disorder, Major, run by Janssen-Cilag International NV at 171 sites in 24 countries.

Completed

Finished. The study has ended and is not enrolling. Results may be posted on the official record.

Official record
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Trial summary

The primary purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of flexibly dosed esketamine nasal spray compared with quetiapine extended-release (XR), both in combination with a continuing selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor/serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SSRI/SNRI), in achieving remission in… Read more about this study

Who is it for?
Ages 18 to 74 years
Conditions the study is for
Depressive Disorder, Major
What is being tested?
Esketamine 28 mg, Esketamine 56 mg and Esketamine 84 mg
Could I receive a placebo?
No, everyone receives an active treatment
How many people
676 participants
Where
171 sitesin 24 countries
Study dates
21 Aug 2020to 15 Jul 2022
Phase
Phase 3
Are there results?
Yes, posted in the registrySummary in the doctors' view

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 18 to 74 years
  • All sexes
  • No healthy volunteers
  • Adult, Older adult

Who may be able to join

  • At screening, each participant must meet Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5) diagnostic criteria for single-episode major depressive disorder (MDD) or recurrent MDD, without psychotic features, based on clinical assessment and confirmed by the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI)
  • At screening and baseline, each participant must have an Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology - Clinician-rated, 30 item (IDS-C30) total score of greater than or equal to (>=) 34
  • Must be on a current antidepressive treatment that includes an selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)/ serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) at screening that resulted in nonresponse (less than 25% improvement of symptoms) after having been given at an adequate dosage (based on antidepressive dosages from SmPC [or local equivalent, if applicable]) for an adequate duration of at least 6 weeks and having been uptitrated to the maximum tolerated dose; however, at screening the participant must show signs of minimal clinical improvement to be eligible for the study. Clinical improvement of a participant on their current AD treatment will be retrospectively evaluated in a qualified psychiatric interview performed by an experienced clinician. At baseline (Day 1) prior to randomization, the investigator will evaluate any changes in the participant's signs/symptoms of depression since the screening assessment and confirm that the inclusion criteria for the current AD treatment are still met (that is nonresponse and minimal clinical improvement)
  • The current antidepressive treatment, was immediately preceded by nonresponse to at least 1 but not more than 5 different, consecutive treatments (all within the current moderate to severe antidepressive episode) with anti-depressants (ADs) taken at an adequate dosage for an adequate duration of at least 6 weeks and must be documented
  • Must have been treated with at least 2 different antidepressive substance classes among the treatments taken at an adequate dosage for an adequate duration of at least 6 weeks resulting in nonresponse in the current moderate to severe depressive episode (including the current treatment with an selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor/serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor [SSRI/SNRI])
  • Must be on a single oral SSRI/SNRI on Day 1 prior to randomization

Who cannot join

  • Received treatment with esketamine or ketamine in the current moderate to severe depressive episode
  • Received treatment with quetiapine extended- or immediate-release in the current moderate to severe depressive episode of a dose higher than 50 milligram per day (mg/day)
  • Had depressive symptoms in the current moderate to severe depressive episode that previously did not respond to an adequate course of treatment with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), defined as at least 7 treatments with unilateral/bilateral ECT
  • Has no signs of clinical improvement at all or with a significant improvement on their current AD treatment that includes an SSRI/SNRI as determined at screening by an experienced clinician during the qualified psychiatric interview
  • Received vagal nerve stimulation or has received deep brain stimulation in the current episode of depression
  • has a current or prior DSM-5 diagnosis of a psychotic disorder or MDD with psychotic features, bipolar or related disorders (confirmed by the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview [MINI]), obsessive compulsive disorder (current only), intellectual disability (DSM-5 diagnostic codes 317, 318.0, 318.1, 318.2, 315.8, and 319), autism spectrum disorder, borderline personality disorder, or antisocial personality disorder, histrionic personality disorder, or narcissistic personality disorder
  • age at onset of first episode of MDD was more than or equal to (>=) 55 years
  • has homicidal ideation or intent, per the investigator's clinical judgment; or has suicidal ideation with some intent to act within 1 month prior to screening, per the investigator's clinical judgment; or based on the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS), corresponding to a response of "Yes" on Item 4 (active suicidal ideation with some intent to act, without specific plan) or Item 5 (active suicidal ideation with specific plan and intent) for suicidal ideation, or a history of suicidal behavior within the past year prior to screening. Participants reporting suicidal ideation with intent to act or suicidal behavior prior to the start of the acute phase should also be excluded

Trial locations and contacts

171 sites in 24 countries.

171 sites in 24 countries

Germany38 sites
  • Universitaetsklinikum der RWTH Aachen

    Aachen, 52074

  • Rheinhessen Fachklinik Alzey

    Alzey, 55232

  • Emovis GmbH

    Berlin, 10629

  • Charite Campus Benjamin Franklin

    Berlin, 12203

  • Medizinisches Versorgungszentrum LiO GmbH

    Berlin, 12209

  • Alexander Schulze - Germany

    Berlin, 13156

  • Praxis Dr. med. Kirsten Hahn

    Berlin, 13187

  • Vivantes Klinikum Spandau

    Berlin, 13585

  • Universitatsklinikum Bonn

    Bonn, 53105

  • Klinikum Chemnitz gGmbH

    Chemnitz, 09131

  • Carl-Thiem-Klinikum Cottbus gGmbH

    Cottbus, 3048

  • Klinikum Dortmund gGmbH

    Dortmund, 44287

  • Universitatsklinikum Carl Gustav Carcus Dresden

    Dresden, 01307

  • Universitatsklinikum Frankfurt

    Frankfurt am Main, 60528

  • Universitätsklinikum Freiburg - Abteilung für Psychiatrie u. Psychotherapie mit Poliklinik

    Freiburg im Breisgau, 79104

  • SRH Waldklinikum Gera GmbH

    Gera, 7548

  • Georg August Universitat Universitatsmedizin Gottingen

    Göttingen, 37075

  • Evangelisches Krankenhaus Bethanien gGmbH

    Greifswald, 17489

  • Universitaetsklinik Hamburg-Eppendorf

    Hamburg, 20251

  • Klinische Forschung Hamburg

    Hamburg, 20253

  • Klinische Forschung Hannover-Mitte GmbH

    Hanover, 30159

  • Medizinische Hochschule Hannover

    Hanover, 30625

  • Universität Heidelberg

    Heidelberg, 69115

  • Oberhavel Kliniken GmbH

    Hennigsdorf, 16761

  • Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes

    Homburg, 66421

  • Universitatsklinikum Jena

    Jena, 7743

  • Panakeia - Arzneimittelforschung GmbH

    Leipzig, 04275

  • Universitaetsklinikum Magdeburg A.oe.R

    Magdeburg, 39120

  • Universitatsmedizin der Johannes Gutenberg Universitat Mainz

    Mainz, 55131

  • Pharmakologisches Studienzentrum Chemnitz GmbH

    Mittweida, 09648

  • Universitatsklinikum Munster

    Münster, 48147

  • Ruppiner Kliniken

    Neuruppin, 16816

  • Praxis Prof. Steinwachs

    Nuremberg, 90402

  • Johanniter Krankenhaus Oberhausen

    Oberhausen, 46145

  • Danuvius Klinik Pfaffenhofen Fachklinik für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie und Psychosomatik

    Pfaffenhofen, 85276

  • Somni Bene GmbH

    Schwerin, 19053

  • Klinische Forschung Schwerin GmbH

    Schwerin, 19055

  • Klinikum der Hansestadt Stralsund GmbH-Ambulanz-Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie - Germany

    Stralsund, 18437

Other trials in Germany

Poland10 sites
  • Mlynowamed Specjalistyczny Psychiatryczny Gabinet Lekarski Joanna Lazarczyk

    Bialystok, 15-404

  • Osrodek Badan Klinicznych CLINSANTE S C

    Bydgoszcz, 85 794

  • Uniwersyteckie Centrum Kliniczne

    Gdansk, 80 214

  • Centrum Badan Klinicznych PI House sp z o o

    Gdansk, 80 546

  • Centrum Medyczne Care Clinic Katowice

    Katowice, 40-568

  • Niepubliczny Zaklad Opieki Psychiatrycznej MENTIS

    Leszno, 64-100

  • Specjalistyczny Psychiatryczny Zespol Opieki Zdrowotnej w Lodzi Szpital im. J. Babinskiego

    Lodz, 91-229

  • SPZOZ CSK UM w Lodzi Klinika Zaburzen Afektywnych i Psychotycznych

    Lodz, 92-216

  • Centrum Medyczne Luxmed Sp z o o

    Lublin, 20 109

  • Osrodek Badan Klinicznych CLINSANTE S C

    Torun, 87 100

Other trials in Poland

Taiwan10 sites
  • Changhua Christian Hospital

    Changhua, 500

  • Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital

    Hualien City, 970

  • Kai-Syuan Psychiatric Hospital

    Kaohsiung City, 80276

  • Chang Gung Memorial Hospital

    Kaohsiung City, 83342

  • National Cheng Kung University Hospital

    Tainan, 70403

  • National Taiwan University Hospital

    Taipei, 10002

  • Mackay Memorial Hospital

    Taipei, 10449

  • Taipei Medical University

    Taipei, 110

  • Taipei Veterans General Hospital

    Taipei, 11217

  • Chang Gung Memorial Hospital

    Taoyuan, 333

Other trials in Taiwan

Turkey (Türkiye)10 sites
  • Hacettepe University Medical Faculty

    Ankara, 6100

  • Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Training and Research Hospital

    Bursa, 16285

  • Uludag University Medical Faculty

    Bursa, 16285

  • Bakirkoy Mental Health Training and Research Hospital

    Istanbul, 34147

  • Erenkoy Mental Health Hospital

    Istanbul, 34736

  • Uskudar University Neuropsychiatry Hospital

    Istanbul, 34768

  • Ege Universitesi Tip Fakultesi

    Izmir, 34371

  • Selcuk University Medical Faculty

    Konya, 42130

  • Liv Hospital

    Samsun, 55020

  • Namik Kemal University

    Tekirdağ, 59030

Other trials in Turkey (Türkiye)

Greece9 sites
  • Aiginition Hospital of Athens

    Athens, 11528

  • 'Dafni' Psychiatric Hospital of Attica

    Athens, 124 62

  • Venizeleio General Hospital

    Crete, 71409

  • Psychiatric Clinic 'Agios Charalampos'

    Heraklion, 71305

  • University General Hospital of Ioannina

    Ioannina, 45110

  • University General Hospital of Rio Patras

    Pátrai, 26504

  • 424 Military Hospital of Thessaloniki

    Thessaloniki, 54636

  • Psychiatric Hospital of Thessaloniki

    Thessaloniki, 56430

  • G Papanikolaou Hospital of Thessaloniki

    Thessaloniki, 57010

Other trials in Greece

Hungary9 sites
  • Semmelweis Egyetem

    Budapest, 1083

  • Eszak Kozep budai Centrum Uj Szent Janos Korhaz es Szakrendelo Budai Csaladkozpontu

    Budapest, 1125

  • Processus Kft

    Budapest, 1137

  • Debreceni Egyetem, Kenézy Gyula Egyetemi Oktatókórház

    Debrecen, 4031

  • Bugat Pal Korhaz

    Gyöngyös, 3200

  • Petz Aladar Megyei Oktato Korhaz

    Győr, H-9024

  • Bács-Kiskun Megyei Kórház a Szegedi Tudományegyetem Általános Orvostudományi Kar Oktató Kórháza

    Kalocsa, 6300

  • Szabolcs-Szatmar-Bereg Megyei Korhazak es Egyetemi Oktatokorhaz

    Nyíregyháza, 4400

  • Pecsi Tudomanyegyetem Klinikai Kozpont

    Pécs, 7623

Other trials in Hungary

Argentina8 sites
  • Fundacion para el Estudio y Tratamiento de las Enfermedades Mentales

    Buenos Aires, C1133AAH

  • FunDaMos

    Buenos Aires, C1405BOA

  • CEN Consultorios Especializados en Neurociencias

    Córdoba, 5000FJF

  • Fundacion Lennox

    Córdoba, 5000

  • Instituto Medico DAMIC

    Córdoba, X5003DCE

  • Sanatorio Prof Leon S Morra S A

    Córdoba, X5009BIN

  • Instituto de Neurociencias San Agustin

    La Plata, 1900

  • C I A P Centro de investigacion y Asistencia en Psiquiatria

    Rosario, 2000

Other trials in Argentina

Bulgaria8 sites
  • State Psychiatric Hospital Kardzhali

    Kardzhali, 6600

  • UMHAT 'Dr. Georgi Stranski', EAD

    Pleven, 5800

  • Mental Health Center - Plovdiv

    Plovdiv, 4002

  • Mental Health Center - Rousse

    Rousse, 7003

  • Multiprofile Hospital for Active Treatment in Neurology and Psychiatry Sveti Naum

    Sofia, 1113

  • MHC - Sofia, EOOD

    Sofia, 1202

  • Centre for Mental Health Prof.N.Shipkovenski EOOD

    Sofia, 1377

  • University Multiprofile Hospital for Active Treatment - UMHAT Alexandrovska EAD

    Sofia, 1431

Other trials in Bulgaria

Czechia8 sites
  • Psychiatricka ambulance Saint Anne s.r.o.

    Brno, 60200

  • Psychiatricka ambulance, MUDr. Marta Holanova

    Brno, 61500

  • NeuropsychiatrieHK, s.r.o.

    Hradec Kralove-Vekose, 50341

  • A Shine S R O

    Pilsen, 31200

  • Clintrial s r o

    Prague, 10000

  • AD71 s.r.o.

    Prague, 109 00

  • Medical Services Prague S R O

    Prague, 16000

  • Institut Neuropsychiatricke pece

    Prague, 18600

Other trials in Czechia

Belgium6 sites
  • Anima

    Alken, 3570

  • Pz Duffel

    Duffel, 2570

  • Clinique Psychiatrique des Frères Alexiens

    Henri-Chapelle, 4841

  • Sint-Franciskusziekenhuis

    Heusden-Zolder, 3550

  • ARIADNE

    Lede, 9340

  • CHU de Liege

    Liège, 4000

Other trials in Belgium

Israel6 sites
  • Rambam Medical Center

    Haifa, 3109601

  • Shalvata Mental Health Center

    Hod HaSharon, 45100

  • Beer Yaakov Mental Health Center

    Lod, 7129434

  • Geha Mental Health Center

    Petah Tikva, 4910002

  • Sheba Medical Center

    Ramat Gan, 52621

  • Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center

    Telaviv, 6423914

Other trials in Israel

Portugal6 sites
  • Hospital de Braga

    Braga, 4710-243

  • Centro Hospitalar do Tâmega e Sousa, EPE - Hospital Padre Americo, Vale do Sousa

    Guilhufe - Penafiel, 4564-007

  • Hosp. Cuf Tejo

    Lisbon, 1350-352

  • Fund. Champalimaud

    Lisbon, 1400 038

  • Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Norte Hospital Santa Maria

    Lisbon, 1649-035

  • Uls Loures Odivelas - Hosp. Loures

    Loures, 2674-514

Other trials in Portugal

South Korea6 sites
  • Chonnam National University Hospital

    Gwangju, 61469

  • Wonkwang University Hospital

    Iksan, 570 711

  • KyungHee University Hospital

    Seoul, 02447

  • Korea University Anam Hospital

    Seoul, 02841

  • Severance Hospital Yonsei University Health System

    Seoul, 03722

  • Samsung Medical Center

    Seoul, 06351

Other trials in South Korea

Sweden6 sites
  • Psykiatriska kliniken

    Gothenburg, 41717

  • Affecta Pskyiatrimottagning

    Halmstad, SE-30248

  • Psykiatriska kliniken

    Luleå, 97180

  • ProbarE i Lund AB

    Lund, 22222

  • ONE LIFETIME Lakarmottagning

    Skövde, SE-54150

  • ProbarE i Stockholm AB

    Stockholm, 113 29

Other trials in Sweden

Brazil5 sites
  • CPN - Centro de Pesquisa em Neurociências Ltda

    Belo Horizonte, 30150-270

  • Trial Tech Tecnologia em Pesquisas com Medicamentos

    Curitiba, 80240-280

  • Ruschel Medicina e Pesquisa Clínica Ltda

    Rio de Janeiro, 22270 060

  • C J S Carvalho & Carvalho LTDA (Viver - Centro De Desospitalizacao Humana)

    São Paulo, 04020-060

  • BR Trials

    São Paulo, 05003-090

Other trials in Brazil

Malaysia5 sites
  • Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun

    Ipoh, 30990

  • Hospital Kuala Lumpur

    Kuala Lumpur, 50586

  • University Malaya Medical Centre

    Kuala Lumpur, 59100

  • Hospital Pengajar Universiti Putra Malaysia

    Serdang, 43400

  • Hospital Tuanku Jaafar

    Seremban, 70300

Other trials in Malaysia

Austria3 sites
  • Medical University Graz

    Graz, 8036

  • Schmitz and Schmitz

    Vienna, 1010

  • Medical University Vienna MUV

    Vienna, 1090

Other trials in Austria

Finland3 sites
  • Mederon LTD at ARTES

    Helsinki, 00270

  • Psykiatrinen Palvelukeskus Solvum Oy

    Helsinki, 120

  • Savon Psykiatripalvelu

    Kuopio, 70110

Other trials in Finland

Kazakhstan3 sites
  • Republican Scientific and Practical Center of Mental Health

    Almaty, 50012

  • Medical Center for Psychological Healt SME

    Nur-Sultan

  • East-Kazakhstan Regional Centre of Mental Health

    Ust-Kamenogorsk, 70016

Other trials in Kazakhstan

Netherlands3 sites
  • Brain Research Center

    Amsterdam, 1081 GN

  • AMC

    Amsterdam, 1105 AZ

  • LUMC

    Leiden, 2300 RC

Other trials in Netherlands

Norway3 sites
  • Haukeland University Hospital

    Hordaland, 5021

  • Sykehuset Ostfold

    Moss, 1535

  • St Olav University Hospital

    Trondheim, 7000

Other trials in Norway

South Africa3 sites
  • Cape Town Clinical Research Centre

    Cape Town, 7530

  • Flexivest 14 Research

    Cape Town, 7550

  • Gert Bosch Pretoria South Africa

    Garsfontein, 00 45

Other trials in South Africa

Denmark2 sites
  • Aalborg University Hospital

    Aalborg, 9000

  • Psykiatrien i Region Syddanmark

    Esbjerg N, 6715

Other trials in Denmark

United Arab Emirates1 site
  • American Center for Psychiatry and Neurology

    Abu Dhabi, 51133

Other trials in United Arab Emirates

About this study

Official title: A Randomized, Open-label, Rater-Blinded, Active-Controlled, International, Multicenter Study to Evaluate the Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability of Flexibly Dosed Esketamine Nasal Spray Compared With Quetiapine Extended-Release in Adult and Elderly Participants With Treatment-Resistant Major Depressive Disorder Who Are Continuing a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor/Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor

The primary purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of flexibly dosed esketamine nasal spray compared with quetiapine extended-release (XR), both in combination with a continuing selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor/serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SSRI/SNRI), in achieving remission in participants who have treatment-resistant major depressive disorder (MDD) with a current moderate to severe depressive episode.

Read the detailed description

A depressive state with classical symptoms such as low (depressive/sad) mood, markedly diminished interest in activities, significant weight loss/gain, insomnia or hypersomnia, psychomotor agitation/retardation, excessive fatigue, inappropriate guilt, diminished concentration, and recurrent thoughts of death, persisting for more than 2 weeks is classified as major depressive disorder (MDD). The mechanism of action of ketamine is distinct from conventional antidepressants (ADs), which target the monoamines (serotonin, norepinephrine, and/or dopamine). Esketamine, the S-enantiomer of ketamine, is approved and widely used for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia via intramuscular or intravenous (IV) administration. There is a significant unmet need to develop novel AD treatments based on the relevant psychophysiological pathways underlying MDD. The goal of any novel treatment would be the rapid and long-lasting relief of depressive symptoms, especially in participants with treatment-resistant depression (TRD), who lack a sufficient response to the currently available treatment strategies. The study consists of a Screening Phase (up to 14 days), an Acute Phase (8 Weeks), a Maintenance Phase (24 Weeks) and a Safety Follow-up Phase (2 Weeks). Safety assessment includes adverse event, serious adverse events, physical examination, vital signs, electrocardiogram, clinical safety laboratory assessments, suicidal risk monitoring. The total duration of the study is approximately 36 Weeks for all participants.

Being tested
Esketamine 28 mg, Esketamine 56 mg, Esketamine 84 mg, Quetiapine XR 50 mg, Quetiapine XR 100 mg
Medical subject headings
Depressive Disorder, Major

What participants receive

What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.

  • Esketamine 28 mgDrug

    Esketamine will be self-administered at a dose of 28 mg as nasal spray.

  • Esketamine 56 mgDrug

    Esketamine will be self-administered at a dose of 56 mg as nasal spray.

  • Esketamine 84 mgDrug

    Esketamine will be self-administered at a dose of 84 mg (maximum uptitrated dose) as nasal spray.

  • Quetiapine XR 50 mgDrug

    Quetiapine XR will be administered at an initial dose of 50 mg/day and may be further increased to 300 mg/day based on individual participant evaluation.

  • Quetiapine XR 100 mgDrug

    Quetiapine XR will be administered at a dose of 100 mg/day and may be further increased to 300 mg/day based on individual participant evaluation.

  • Quetiapine XR 150 mgDrug

    Quetiapine XR will be administered at a dose of 150 mg/day and may be further increased to 300 mg/day based on individual participant evaluation.

  • SSRI/SNRIDrug

    Participants will continue to take SSRI/SNRI that is approved for use in depression in their country of participation; off-label use of any SSRI/SNRI is not permitted. The continuing SSRI/SNRI dosage may be optimized throughout the study, at the investigator's discretion and based on the SmPC (or local equivalent, if applicable).

Study groups in NCT04338321
Study groupRoleWhat they receive
Esketamine ArmExperimentalParticipants will receive treatment with esketamine nasal spray (28 milligram [mg] [initial dose for elderly participants 65 to 74 years of age and adults of Japanese ancestry; may be used throughout the study in these populations; may be uptitrated in 28 mg increments], 56 mg [initial dose for adult participants aged 18 to 64 years and may be used for all age groups throughout the study], or 84 mg [maximum dose esketamine nasal spray may be uptitrated to]) twice-weekly with a flexible dose regimen from Day 1 until Week 4, once weekly from Week 5 to Week 8 and once-weekly or once every 2 weeks from Week 9 to Week 32 in combination with continuing serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor/selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI/SNRI).
Receives: Drug: Esketamine 28 mg; Drug: Esketamine 56 mg; Drug: Esketamine 84 mg; Drug: SSRI/SNRI
Comparator ArmActive comparatorParticipants will continue to take their current SSRI/SNRI augmented with quetiapine extended release (XR) as per the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) (or local equivalent, if applicable). In adult participants aged 18 to 64 years, the initial dose is 50 mg/day on Days 1-2, 150 mg/day on Days 3-4 [lowest effective dose]; a further dose increase to 300 mg/day on Day 5 and onward will be based on individual participant evaluation. In elderly participants aged 65 to 74 years, the initial dose is 50 mg/day on Days 1-3, 100 mg/day on Days 4-7, and 150 mg/day on Day 8; a further dose increase to 300 mg/day will be based on individual participant evaluation no earlier than Day 22.
Receives: Drug: Quetiapine XR 50 mg; Drug: Quetiapine XR 100 mg; Drug: Quetiapine XR 150 mg; Drug: SSRI/SNRI

What is being measured

The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.

  1. Percentage of Participants With Remission as Assessed by the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) Score at Week 8

    Percentage of participants with remission as assessed by the MADRS at Week 8 was reported. The MADRS is a clinician-rated scale designed to measure depression severity and to detect changes due to antidepressant treatment. The scale consists of 10 items, each of which is scored from 0 (item is not present or is normal) to 6 (severe or continuous presence of the symptoms), for a total possible score of 60. Higher scores represent a more severe condition. The MADRS evaluates apparent sadness, reported sadness, inner tension, sleep, appetite, concentration, lassitude, interest level, pessimistic thoughts, and suicidal thoughts. A participant was defined as being in remission if the MADRS total score was less than or equal to (<=)10 and no treatment or study discontinuation before Week 8.

    Measured: Week 8

Secondary outcomes (24)
  1. Percentage of Participants With Both Remission at Week 8 and Relapse-free Until Week 32

    Percentage of participants with both remission at Week 8 and relapse-free until Week 32 were reported. A participant was defined as being in remission if the MADRS total score was <= 10 and no treatment or study discontinuation before Week 8. A relapse was defined by any of following: a) Worsening of depressive symptoms as indicated by MADRS total score greater than or equal to (>=) 22 confirmed by 1 additional assessment of MADRS total score >= 22 within the next 5 to 15 days. The date of the second MADRS assessment was used for the date of relapse; b) Any psychiatric hospitalization for: worsening of depression, suicide prevention or suicide attempt, the start date of hospitalization was the date of relapse; c) Suicide attempt, completed suicide, or any other clinically relevant event determined by investigator's judgment to be indicative of a relapse of depressive illness, but without hospitalized. The onset of the event was used for the date of relapse.

    Measured: Week 32

  2. Change From Baseline in Clinician-rated Overall MADRS Score

    Change from baseline in clinician-rated overall MADRS score was reported. The MADRS is a clinician-rated scale designed to measure depression severity and to detect changes due to antidepressant treatment. The scale consists of 10 items, each of which is scored from 0 (item is not present or is normal) to 6 (severe or continuous presence of the symptoms), summed up for a total possible score range of 0 to 60. Higher scores represent a more severe condition. The MADRS evaluates apparent sadness, reported sadness, inner tension, sleep, appetite, concentration, lassitude, interest level, pessimistic thoughts, and suicidal thoughts.

    Measured: Baseline, Weeks 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32

  3. Change From Baseline in Clinician-rated Overall MADRS Score at Last Observation Carried Forward (LOCF)

    Change from baseline in clinician-rated overall MADRS score at LOCF was reported. The MADRS is a clinician-rated scale designed to measure depression severity and to detect changes due to antidepressant treatment. The scale consists of 10 items, each of which is scored from 0 (item is not present or is normal) to 6 (severe or continuous presence of the symptoms), summed up for a total possible score range of 0 to 60. Higher scores represent a more severe condition. The MADRS evaluates apparent sadness, reported sadness, inner tension, sleep, appetite, concentration, lassitude, interest level, pessimistic thoughts, and suicidal thoughts. LOCF is defined as the participants who had a missing value or who stopped treatment at a specific time point had their last non-missing value carried forward.

    Measured: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32

  4. Change From Baseline in Clinician-rated Overall Severity of Depressive Illness as Assessed by Clinical Global Impression - Severity (CGI-S) Scale Score

    Change from baseline in clinician-rated overall severity of depressive illness as assessed by CGI-S scale score was reported. The CGI-S provides an overall clinician-determined summary measure of the severity of the participant's illness that takes into account all available information, including knowledge of the participant's history, psychosocial circumstances, symptoms, behavior, and the impact of the symptoms on the participant's ability to function. The CGI-S evaluates the severity of psychopathology on a scale of 1 to 7. Considering total clinical experience, a participant is assessed on severity of mental illness at the time of rating according to: 1 = normal (not at all ill); 2 = borderline mentally ill; 3 = mildly ill; 4 = moderately ill; 5 = markedly ill; 6 = severely ill; 7 = among the most extremely ill participants. Negative change in score indicates improvement.

    Measured: Baseline, Weeks 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  5. Change From Baseline in Clinician-rated Overall Severity of Depressive Illness as Assessed by CGI-S Scale Score at LOCF

    Change from Baseline in clinician-rated overall severity of depressive illness as assessed by CGI-S scale score at LOCF was reported. The CGI-S provides an overall clinician-determined summary measure of the severity of the participant's illness that takes into account all available information, including knowledge of the participant's history, psychosocial circumstances, symptoms, behavior, and the impact of the symptoms on the participant's ability to function. The CGI-S evaluates the severity of psychopathology on a scale of 1 to 7. A participant is assessed on severity of mental illness at the time of rating according to: 1 = normal (not at all ill); 2 = borderline mentally ill; 3 = mildly ill; 4 = moderately ill; 5 = markedly ill; 6 = severely ill; 7 = among the most extremely ill participants. LOCF is defined as the participants who had a missing value or who stopped treatment at a specific time point had their last non-missing value carried forward.

    Measured: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  6. Clinician-rated Overall Severity of Depressive Illness as Assessed by Clinical Global Impression - Change (CGI-C) Scale Score

    Clinician-rated overall severity of depressive illness as assessed by CGI-C scale score was reported. The CGI-C evaluates the total improvement whether or not entirely due to drug treatment on a scale of 1 to 7. Compared to the condition at baseline, a participant is assessed on how much he/she has changed, according to: 1 = very much improved; 2 = much improved; 3 = minimally improved; 4 = no change; 5 = minimally worse; 6 = much worse; 7 = very much worse. Higher scores indicate more severity.

    Measured: Baseline, Weeks 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  7. Number of Participants With Clinician-rated Overall Severity of Depressive Illness as Assessed by CGI-C Scale Score at LOCF

    Number of participants with clinician-rated overall severity of depressive illness as assessed by CGI-C scale score at LOCF was reported. The CGI-C evaluates the total improvement whether or not entirely due to drug treatment on a scale of 1 to 7. Compared to the condition at baseline, a participant is assessed on how much he/she has changed, according to: 1 = very much improved; 2 = much improved; 3 = minimally improved; 4 = no change; 5 = minimally worse; 6 = much worse; 7 = very much worse. Higher scores indicate more severity. LOCF is defined as the participants who had a missing value or who stopped treatment at a specific time point had their last non-missing value carried forward.

    Measured: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  8. Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Depressive Symptoms as Assessed by Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) 9-item Total Score

    Change from baseline in participant-reported depressive symptoms as assessed by PHQ 9-item total score was reported. The PHQ-9 is a validated 9-item, patient-reported outcome (PRO) measure to assess depressive symptoms. Each item is rated on a 4-point scale (0=not at all, 1=several days, 2=more than half the days, and 3=nearly every day). The participant's item responses are summed to provide a total score (range of 0 to 27), with higher scores indicating greater severity of depressive symptoms. The severity of the PHQ-9 is categorized as follows: None-minimal (0-4), Mild (5-9), Moderate (10-14), Moderately Severe (15-19) and Severe (20-27).

    Measured: Baseline, Weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32

  9. Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Depressive Symptoms as Assessed by PHQ 9-item Total Score at LOCF

    Change from baseline in participant-reported depressive symptoms as assessed by PHQ 9-item total score at LOCF was reported. The PHQ-9 is a validated 9-item, PRO measure to assess depressive symptoms. Each item is rated on a 4-point scale (0=not at all, 1=several days, 2=more than half the days, and 3=nearly every day). The participant's item responses are summed to provide a total score (range of 0 to 27), with higher scores indicating greater severity of depressive symptoms. The severity of the PHQ-9 is categorized as follows: None-minimal (0-4), Mild (5-9), Moderate (10-14), Moderately Severe (15-19) and Severe (20-27). LOCF is defined as participants who had a missing value or who stopped treatment at a specific time point had their last non-missing value carried forward.

    Measured: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32

  10. Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Functional Impairment and Associated Disability as Assessed by Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS) Total Score

    Change from baseline in participant-reported functional impairment and associated disability as assessed by SDS total score was reported. The SDS is a validated PRO measure consisting of a 5-item questionnaire that has been widely used and accepted for assessment of functional impairment and associated disability. The first 3 items assess disruption of (1) work/school, (2) social life, and (3) family life/home responsibilities using a rating scale from 0 to 10. It also has 1 item assessing days lost from school or work and 1 item assessing days of underproductivity. The scores for the first 3 items are summed to create a total score of 0 to 30, where higher score indicates greater impairment. Scores <=2 for each item and <= 6 for the total score are considered functional remission.

    Measured: Baseline, Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  11. Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Functional Impairment and Associated Disability as Assessed by SDS Total Score at LOCF

    Change from baseline in participant-reported functional impairment and associated disability as assessed by SDS total score at LOCF was reported. The SDS is a validated PRO measure consisting of a 5-item questionnaire for assessment of functional impairment and associated disability. The first 3 items assess disruption of (1) work/school, (2) social life, and (3) family life/home responsibilities using a rating scale from 0 to 10. It also has 1 item assessing days lost from school or work and 1 item assessing days of underproductivity. The scores for the first 3 items are summed to create a total score of 0 to 30, where higher score indicates greater impairment. Scores <=2 for each item and <= 6 for the total score are considered functional remission. LOCF is defined as the participants who had a missing value or who stopped treatment at a specific time point had their last non-missing value carried forward.

    Measured: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  12. Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Health-related Quality of Life (HRQoL) and Health Status as Assessed by 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) Scale Score

    Change from baseline in participant-reported HRQoL and health status as assessed by SF-36 scale score was reported. The SF-36 consists of 8 subscales (physical function, role limitations due to physical problems, pain, general health perception, vitality, social function, role limitations due to emotional problems, and mental health). Participants self-report on items in a subscale that have between 2-6 choices per item using likert-type responses (for example: none of the time, some of the time, etc.). Summations of item scores of the same subscale give the subscale scores, which are transformed into a range from 0 to 100; 0= worst HRQoL, 100=best HRQoL. Higher scores indicate better health status.

    Measured: Baseline, Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  13. Change From Baseline in Participant-reported HRQoL and Health Status as Assessed by SF-36 Scale Score at LOCF

    Change from baseline in participant-reported HRQoL and health status as assessed by SF-36 domain scores at LOCF was reported. The SF-36 consists of 8 subscales (physical function, role limitations due to physical problems, pain, general health perception, vitality, social function, role limitations due to emotional problems, and mental health). Participants self-report on items in a subscale that have between 2-6 choices per item using likert-type responses (for example: none of the time, some of the time, etc.). Summations of item scores of the same subscale give the subscale scores, which are transformed into a range from 0 to 100; 0= worst HRQoL, 100=best HRQoL. Higher scores indicate better health status. LOCF is defined as participants who had a missing value or who stopped treatment at a specific time point had their last non-missing value carried forward.

    Measured: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  14. Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Quality of Life as Assessed by Quality of Life in Depression Scale (QLDS) Total Score

    Change from baseline in participant-reported quality of life as assessed by QLDS total score was reported. The QLDS is a disease-specific validated PRO measure which assesses the impact that depression has on a participant's quality of life. It is a 34-item self-rated questionnaire which consists of dichotomous response questions, with the response being either True/Not True. Each statement on the QLDS is given a score of "1" or "0". A score of "1" is indicative of adverse quality of life. All item scores are summed to give a total score that ranges from 0 (good quality of life) to 34 (very poor quality of life). A higher score indicates a more severe condition.

    Measured: Baseline, Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  15. Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Quality of Life as Assessed by QLDS Total Score at LOCF

    Change from baseline in participant-reported quality of life as assessed by QLDS total score at LOCF was reported. The QLDS is a disease-specific validated PRO measure which assesses the impact that depression has on a participant's quality of life. It is a 34-item self-rated questionnaire which consists of dichotomous response questions, with the response being either True/Not True. Each statement on the QLDS is given a score of "1" or "0". A score of "1" is indicative of adverse quality of life. All item scores are summed to give a total score that ranges from 0 (good quality of life) to 34 (very poor quality of life). A higher score indicates a more severe condition. LOCF is defined as the participants who had a missing value or who stopped treatment at a specific time point had their last non-missing value carried forward.

    Measured: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  16. Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Health-related Quality of Life as Assessed by EuroQol-5 Dimension-5 Level (EQ-5D-5L) Score: Health Status Index

    Change from baseline in participant-reported health-related quality of Life as assessed by EQ-5D-5L score: health status index was reported. The EQ-5D-5L is a standardized 2-part instrument used to measure health outcomes, primarily designed for self-completion by respondents. It consists of the EQ-5D-5L descriptive system and the EQ Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-VAS). The EQ-5D-5L descriptive system comprises the following 5 dimensions: mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort and anxiety/depression. Each of the 5 dimensions is divided into 5 levels of perceived problems (level 1 = no problem, level 2 = slight problems, level 3 = moderate problems, level 4 = severe problems, level 5 = extreme problems). The participant selects an answer for each of the 5 dimensions considering the response that best matches his or her health "today." Responses were used to generate health status index which ranges from 0 (dead) and 1 (full health), a lower score indicates worse health.

    Measured: Baseline, Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  17. Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Health-related Quality of Life Group, as Assessed by EQ-5D-5L Score: Health Status Index at LOCF

    Change from baseline in participant-reported health-related quality of Life as assessed by EQ-5D-5L score: health status index at LOCF was reported. The EQ-5D-5L is a standardized 2-part instrument used to measure health outcomes, primarily designed for self-completion by respondents. It consists of the EQ-5D-5L descriptive system and the EQ-VAS. The EQ-5D-5L descriptive system comprises of 5 dimensions: mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort and anxiety/depression. Each of the 5 dimensions is divided into 5 levels of perceived problems (level 1 = no problem, level 2 = slight problems, level 3 = moderate problems, level 4 = severe problems, level 5 = extreme problems). The participant selects an answer for each of the 5 dimensions considering the response that best matches his or her health "today." LOCF is defined as the participants who had a missing value or who stopped treatment at a specific time point had their last non-missing value carried forward.

    Measured: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  18. Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Health Status as Assessed by EQ-5D-5L Score: VAS

    Change from baseline in participant-reported health status as assessed by EQ-5D-5L Score: VAS was reported. The EQ-5D-5L is a standardized 2-part instrument for use as a measure of health outcome, primarily designed for self-completion by respondents. It essentially consists of the EQ-5D-5L descriptive system and the EQ-VAS. EQ-VAS self-rating records the respondent's own assessment of his/her overall health status at time of completion, on a scale of 0 (worst health you can imagine) to 100 (best health you can imagine). Positive change in score indicates improvement.

    Measured: Baseline, Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  19. Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Health Status as Assessed by EQ-5D-5L Score: VAS at LOCF

    Change from baseline in participant-reported health status as assessed by EQ-5D-5L score: VAS at LOCF was reported. The EQ-5D-5L is a standardized 2-part instrument for use as a measure of health outcome, primarily designed for self-completion by respondents. It essentially consists of the EQ-5D-5L descriptive system and the EQ-VAS. EQ-VAS self-rating records the respondent's own assessment of his/her overall health status at time of completion, on a scale of 0 (worst health you can imagine) to 100 (best health you can imagine). Positive change in score indicates improvement. LOCF is defined as the participants who had a missing value or who stopped treatment at a specific time point had their last non-missing value carried forward.

    Measured: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  20. Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Work Productivity as Assessed by Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI): Depression Questionnaire

    Change from baseline in participant-reported work productivity as assessed by WPAI: depression questionnaire was reported. The WPAI-D questionnaire is a validated short instrument that assesses impairment in work and other regular activities over the past 7 days. The WPAI yields four types of scores: (a) Absenteeism (work time missed); (b) Presenteeism (impairment at work / reduced on-the-job effectiveness); (c) Work productivity loss (overall work impairment / absenteeism plus presenteeism); (d) Activity Impairment. The first three scores were derived only for respondents who were working (should be missing for non-working), but the last score was applicable for all respondents. Each score ranges from 0 to 100 with higher scores indicating greater impairment and less productivity.

    Measured: Baseline, Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  21. Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Work Productivity as Assessed by WPAI: Depression Questionnaire at LOCF

    Change from baseline in participant-reported work productivity as assessed by WPAI: depression questionnaire at LOCF was reported. The WPAI-D questionnaire is a validated short instrument that assesses impairment in work and other regular activities over the past 7 days. The WPAI yields four types of scores: (a) Absenteeism (work time missed); (b) Presenteeism (impairment at work / reduced on-the-job effectiveness); (c) Work productivity loss (overall work impairment / absenteeism plus presenteeism); (d) Activity Impairment. The first three scores were derived only for respondents who were working (should be missing for non-working), but the last score was applicable for all respondents. Each score ranges from 0 to 100 with higher scores indicating greater impairment and less productivity. LOCF is defined as the participants who had a missing value or who stopped treatment at a specific time point had their last non-missing value carried forward.

    Measured: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

  22. Number of Participants With Treatment-emergent Adverse Events (TEAEs)

    An AE is any untoward medical occurrence in a participant participating in a clinical study that does not necessarily have a causal relationship with the pharmaceutical/ biological agent under study. TEAEs were those events if they started after administration of the first dose until 14 days after the last dose of study medication for other TEAEs except serious; and first dose until 30 days after the last dose of study medication for serious TEAEs.

    Measured: Up to Week 35

  23. Number of Participants With TEAEs of Special Interest

    Number of participants with TEAEs of special interest were reported. It included significant TEAEs that were judged to be of special interest because of clinical importance, known or suspected class effects, or based on nonclinical signals. Events such as sedation, depersonalization/derealization disorder, depression suicidal, aggression, allergic cystitis, cholestasis and jaundice of hepatic origin, and many more were considered as TEAEs of special interest.

    Measured: Up to Week 35

  24. Number of Participants With Suicidal Ideation or Behavior as Assessed by Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) Score

    Number of participants with suicidal ideation or behavior as assessed by C-SSRS score was reported. The C-SSRS is an assessment tool that evaluates suicidal ideation and behavior. Suicidal ideation consists of 5 items: wish to be dead, non-specific active suicidal thoughts, active suicidal ideation with any methods (not plan) without intention to act, active suicidal ideation with some intent to act without specific plan, and active suicidal ideation with specific plan and intent. Suicidal behavior consists of 5 items: preparatory acts or behavior, aborted attempt, interrupted attempt, actual attempt (non-fatal), and completed suicide. The maximum score (from the 10 categories) assigned for each participant was summarized into one of three broad categories: No suicidal ideation or behavior (0), Suicidal ideation (1 - 5), Suicidal behavior (6 - 10). Total score ranges from 1 to 10. Higher scores indicate more severe suicidal ideation and behavior.

    Measured: Weeks 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32

Timeline

From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.

  1. First posted8 Apr 2020
  2. Study start21 Aug 2020
  3. Primary completion20 Jan 2022
  4. Study completion15 Jul 2022

Resources

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 3
Primary purpose
Treatment
Allocation
Randomised
Intervention model
Parallel groups
Masking
None (open label)
Enrolment
676 participants (actual)
IDs, dates and publications
ClinicalTrials.gov ID
NCT04338321
Sponsor's protocol ID
CR108787
Other IDs
2019-002992-33, 54135419TRD3013, 2019
Acronym
ESCAPE-TRD
Status last verified
Apr 2025
First submitted
6 Apr 2020
Last updated
29 Apr 2025
Data monitoring committee
No
FDA-regulated drug
Yes
FDA-regulated device
No
Individual data sharing
Yes: The data sharing policy of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson \& Johnson is available at www.janssen.com/clinical-trials/transparency. As noted on this site, requests for access to the study data can be submitted through Yale open Data Access (YODA) Project site at yoda.yale.edu

Publications

  • Young AH, Bartova L, Cardoner N, Demyttenaere K, Fagiolini A, Godinov Y, Golib Dzib JF, von Holt C, McIntyre RS, Oliveira-Maia AJ, Rive B, Gorwood P. Trajectory of response to esketamine nasal spray for treatment resistant depression: Findings from ESCAPE-TRD. Eur Psychiatry. 2026 Jun 16;69(1):e74. doi: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2026.12229.

    PubMed 42298878
  • McIntyre RS, Bitter I, Buyze J, Fagiolini A, Godinov Y, Gorwood P, Ito T, Oliveira-Maia AJ, Vieta E, Werner-Kiechle T, Young AH, Reif A. Safety and tolerability of esketamine nasal spray versus quetiapine extended release in patients with treatment resistant depression. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2024 Aug;85:58-65. doi: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2024.05.009. Epub 2024 Jul 1.

    PubMed 38954874
  • Lan CH, Wei JC. Esketamine Nasal Spray versus Quetiapine for Resistant Depression. N Engl J Med. 2024 Jan 4;390(1):93-94. doi: 10.1056/NEJMc2313230. No abstract available.

    PubMed 38169503
  • Horowitz MA, Ploderl M, Naudet F. Esketamine Nasal Spray versus Quetiapine for Resistant Depression. N Engl J Med. 2024 Jan 4;390(1):93. doi: 10.1056/NEJMc2313230. No abstract available.

    PubMed 38169502
  • Reif A, Bitter I, Buyze J, Cebulla K, Frey R, Fu DJ, Ito T, Kambarov Y, Llorca PM, Oliveira-Maia AJ, Messer T, Mulhern-Haughey S, Rive B, von Holt C, Young AH, Godinov Y; ESCAPE-TRD Investigators. Esketamine Nasal Spray versus Quetiapine for Treatment-Resistant Depression. N Engl J Med. 2023 Oct 5;389(14):1298-1309. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2304145.

    PubMed 37792613

Questions about this trial

What is this clinical trial studying?

A Phase 3 study testing Esketamine 28 mg, Esketamine 56 mg and Esketamine 84 mg in people with Depressive Disorder, Major, run by Janssen-Cilag International NV at 171 sites in 24 countries.

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 6 inclusion and 8 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 29 Apr 2025. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.

Where is the study taking place?

The record lists 171 sites in Germany, Poland, Taiwan, Turkey (Türkiye), Greece and 19 more countries. 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. 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 3 studies compare the treatment with the current standard treatment or a placebo in a large group, to confirm how well it works and watch for side effects.

Not every study follows the same path, and some studies (observational studies, device studies) have no phase.

Are results available for this study?

Yes. Results are posted in the registry (first posted 15 Feb 2023). A summary is in the For doctors view, and the full results are on ClinicalTrials.gov.

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?

Percentage of Participants With Remission as Assessed by the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) Score at Week 8 (time frame: Week 8). 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 NCT04338321, which also lists 5 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 29 Apr 2025.

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