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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Austria3 sites
Medical University Graz
Graz, 8036
Schmitz and Schmitz
Vienna, 1010
Medical University Vienna MUV
Vienna, 1090
Finland3 sites
Mederon LTD at ARTES
Helsinki, 00270
Psykiatrinen Palvelukeskus Solvum Oy
Helsinki, 120
Savon Psykiatripalvelu
Kuopio, 70110
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
Netherlands3 sites
Brain Research Center
Amsterdam, 1081 GN
AMC
Amsterdam, 1105 AZ
LUMC
Leiden, 2300 RC
Norway3 sites
Haukeland University Hospital
Hordaland, 5021
Sykehuset Ostfold
Moss, 1535
St Olav University Hospital
Trondheim, 7000
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
Denmark2 sites
Aalborg University Hospital
Aalborg, 9000
Psykiatrien i Region Syddanmark
Esbjerg N, 6715
United Arab Emirates1 site
American Center for Psychiatry and Neurology
Abu Dhabi, 51133
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.
- Conditions
- Depressive Disorder, Major
- 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 group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Esketamine Arm | Experimental | Participants 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 Arm | Active comparator | Participants 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.
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)
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
- First posted8 Apr 2020
- Study start21 Aug 2020
- Primary completion20 Jan 2022
- Study completion15 Jul 2022
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Posted resultsParticipant flow, outcome measures and adverse events reported by the sponsor.
- Publications (5)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Depressive Disorder, MajorStudies 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 3
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Enrolment
- 676 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Janssen-Cilag International NV
- Sponsor type
- Industry (pharma, biotech, devices)
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Janssen-Cilag International NV Clinical Trials, Study director, Janssen-Cilag International NV
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
- Results posted
- Yes, on ClinicalTrials.gov
- 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 42298878McIntyre 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 38954874Lan 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 38169503Horowitz 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 38169502Reif 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
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 29 Apr 2025. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- 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
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT04338321
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- ESCAPE-TRD / CR108787
- Conditions
- Depressive Disorder, Major
- Phase
- Phase 3
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 676 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Janssen-Cilag International NVIndustry (pharma, biotech, devices)
- Study start
- 21 Aug 2020 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 20 Jan 2022 (actual)
- Study completion
- 15 Jul 2022 (actual)
- First posted
- 8 Apr 2020 (actual)
- Results
- Posted 15 Feb 2023
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
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.
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.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Esketamine Arm | Experimental | Drug: Esketamine 28 mg, Drug: Esketamine 56 mg, Drug: Esketamine 84 mg, Drug: SSRI/SNRIParticipants 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). |
| Comparator Arm | Active comparator | Drug: Quetiapine XR 50 mg, Drug: Quetiapine XR 100 mg, Drug: Quetiapine XR 150 mg, Drug: SSRI/SNRIParticipants 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. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 74 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (6 listed)
- 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])
Key exclusion criteria (8 listed)
- 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
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Esketamine 28 mgEsketamine will be self-administered at a dose of 28 mg as nasal spray. | Drug | Esketamine Arm |
| Esketamine 56 mgEsketamine will be self-administered at a dose of 56 mg as nasal spray. | Drug | Esketamine Arm |
| Esketamine 84 mgEsketamine will be self-administered at a dose of 84 mg (maximum uptitrated dose) as nasal spray. | Drug | Esketamine Arm |
| Quetiapine XR 50 mgQuetiapine 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. | Drug | Comparator Arm |
| Quetiapine XR 100 mgQuetiapine 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. | Drug | Comparator Arm |
| Quetiapine XR 150 mgQuetiapine 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. | Drug | Comparator Arm |
| SSRI/SNRIParticipants 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). | Drug | Comparator Arm, Esketamine Arm |
Primary outcome
Percentage of Participants With Remission as Assessed by the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) Score at Week 8
Time frame: 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.
24 secondary outcomes
Percentage of Participants With Both Remission at Week 8 and Relapse-free Until Week 32
Time frame: Week 32
Change From Baseline in Clinician-rated Overall MADRS Score
Time frame: Baseline, Weeks 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32
Change From Baseline in Clinician-rated Overall MADRS Score at Last Observation Carried Forward (LOCF)
Time frame: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32
Change From Baseline in Clinician-rated Overall Severity of Depressive Illness as Assessed by Clinical Global Impression - Severity (CGI-S) Scale Score
Time frame: Baseline, Weeks 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
Change From Baseline in Clinician-rated Overall Severity of Depressive Illness as Assessed by CGI-S Scale Score at LOCF
Time frame: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
Clinician-rated Overall Severity of Depressive Illness as Assessed by Clinical Global Impression - Change (CGI-C) Scale Score
Time frame: Baseline, Weeks 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
Number of Participants With Clinician-rated Overall Severity of Depressive Illness as Assessed by CGI-C Scale Score at LOCF
Time frame: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Depressive Symptoms as Assessed by Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) 9-item Total Score
Time frame: Baseline, Weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32
Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Depressive Symptoms as Assessed by PHQ 9-item Total Score at LOCF
Time frame: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32
Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Functional Impairment and Associated Disability as Assessed by Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS) Total Score
Time frame: Baseline, Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Functional Impairment and Associated Disability as Assessed by SDS Total Score at LOCF
Time frame: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
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
Time frame: Baseline, Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
Change From Baseline in Participant-reported HRQoL and Health Status as Assessed by SF-36 Scale Score at LOCF
Time frame: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Quality of Life as Assessed by Quality of Life in Depression Scale (QLDS) Total Score
Time frame: Baseline, Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Quality of Life as Assessed by QLDS Total Score at LOCF
Time frame: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
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
Time frame: Baseline, Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Health-related Quality of Life Group, as Assessed by EQ-5D-5L Score: Health Status Index at LOCF
Time frame: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Health Status as Assessed by EQ-5D-5L Score: VAS
Time frame: Baseline, Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Health Status as Assessed by EQ-5D-5L Score: VAS at LOCF
Time frame: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Work Productivity as Assessed by Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI): Depression Questionnaire
Time frame: Baseline, Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
Change From Baseline in Participant-reported Work Productivity as Assessed by WPAI: Depression Questionnaire at LOCF
Time frame: Baseline, LOCF at Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
Number of Participants With Treatment-emergent Adverse Events (TEAEs)
Time frame: Up to Week 35
Number of Participants With TEAEs of Special Interest
Time frame: Up to Week 35
Number of Participants With Suicidal Ideation or Behavior as Assessed by Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) Score
Time frame: Weeks 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32
Results and safety
Loading the posted results from ClinicalTrials.gov…
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 29 Apr 2025.
- Posted resultsParticipant flow, baseline, all outcome measures and adverse events.
- Derived from this study: PubMed 42298878Young 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.
- Derived from this study: PubMed 38954874McIntyre 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.
- Derived from this study: PubMed 38169503Lan 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.
- Derived from this study: PubMed 38169502Horowitz 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.
- Derived from this study: PubMed 37792613Reif 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.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: 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
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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.
Janssen-Cilag International NV Clinical Trials study director
Janssen-Cilag International NV
171 sites in 24 countries: see every site and its status.
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.