Extract

Background and study aims There is some evidence that exercise can improve outcome in depression but the current evidence is rather limited and the studies have been too small to provide accurate estimates of any possible benefit. Exercise on prescription is used to describe arrangements whereby a doctor will recommend to a patient that they carry out a systematic programme of exercise. They have mostly been provided for people with cardiovascular (heart) disease. The aim of this study is to investigate whether exercise on prescription affects outcome in depression when used in addition to the usual care of depression that is usually treated with antidepressants. Who can participate? Patients aged 18-69 with mild/moderate depression What does the study involve? Participants are randomly allocated to one of two groups. One group receives exercise on prescription in addition to usual care. The other group receives usual care. We measure depression over 24 months and also measure antidepressant use, quality of life and costs. What are the possible benefits and risks of participating? Not provided at time of registration Where is the study run from? University of Bristol (UK) When is the study starting and how long is it expected to run for? August 2006 to January 2011 Who is funding the study? Health Technology Assessment Programme (UK) Who is the main contact? Prof. Glyn Lewis [email protected]

Inclusion criteria

• Mild/moderate depression

Links

• isrctn
• ictrp