P-506 - 12 Weeks of moderate intensity exercise improves treatment-resistant major depressive disorder (MDD). daily use of accelerometers contributes to 97% adherence

Abstract

Introduction Physical exercise has shown promising results as an adjuvant therapy for depression. However, most studies rely on self-reported measures, which are subject to bias. Aims To assess, using accelerometer data, compliance to a moderate intensity 12 week exercise program, exercise patterns and relationship between exercise dose and response to treatment, in a population sample of patients with treatment-resistant MDD. Methods Study design Prospective, randomized, two-arm, parallel assignment. Population 150 individuals diagnosed with treatment-resistant MDD were initially screened. Those meeting study criteria were randomized to one of two groups: control (N = 11) and aerobic exercise (N = 22). All participants maintained their usual pharmacotherapy. Study protocol Exercise group: moderate intensity exercise program for 12 weeks. Control group: regular daily activities. All participants wore an ActiGraph ® GT1M LLC accelerometer during the 12 weeks. Assessed parameters Moderate plus vigorous physical activity (MVPA), HAMD17, BDI, GAF, CGI-S. Results The exercise group showed better depression and functional parameters at the end of the study compared to the control group (lower HAMD17, BDI, CGI-S; higher GAF, p Although not statistically significant, there was a trend for increasing MVPA from no response to response and remission. MVPA showed significant favourable correlations with all depression and functioning parameters. Conclusions Future implementation of effective exercise augmentation therapy programs should consider exercise dose and objective measures that will allow the quantification of that dose.