Slow versus standard up-titration of paroxetine for the treatment of depression in cancer patients: a pilot study.

Objectives: This study aimed to compare the tolerability and efficacy of two different titrations of paroxetine (slow and standard) in a population of cancer patients with depression.

Methods: This randomized open trial included 30 cancer patients with depression (major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder, or adjustment disorder with depressed mood) and aimed to compare the safety of slow up-titration (arm A) versus standard up-titration (arm B) of paroxetine chlorhydrate. In both arms, the maximum final dose was 20 mg/day.