A retrospective analysis of combined treatment with escitalopram and Naoan dropping pills treatment for depression

This study evaluated the effectiveness of combining escitalopram with Naoan dropping pills for the treatment of depression, focusing on improvements in depressive symptoms, daily functional abilities, and cerebral hemodynamics. A total of 87 patients diagnosed with depression at The Third People's Hospital of Tianshui over a 2-year period were retrospectively analyzed. They were divided into 2 groups according to whether Naoan dropping pills were used or not. Group A (n = 43) received only escitalopram, while group B (n = 44) received a combination of escitalopram and Naoan dropping pills for a period of 2 months. Efficacy was determined using the Hamilton depression scale (HAMD), with a ≥50% reduction in HAMD score from baseline considered effective. The activities of daily living (ADL) scale was employed to assess daily functional abilities. Cerebral hemodynamics were evaluated using transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD). By the end of the 2-month treatment period, Group B demonstrated a significantly higher efficacy rate (90.91%) than Group A (72.09%). In addition, Group B showed more pronounced improvements in ADL scores, indicating enhanced day-to-day functioning. TCD measurements further revealed higher systolic and diastolic blood flow velocities in the major cerebral arteries of Group B, suggesting improved cerebral perfusion. The combination of escitalopram and Naoan dropping pills proved more efficacious in ameliorating depressive symptoms, enhancing daily functional abilities, and improving cerebral hemodynamics than escitalopram alone. These outcomes highlight the potential benefits of integrated treatment strategies for the management of depression, advocating the adoption of personalized and comprehensive treatment modalities.