sulforaphane + selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors

Sulforaphane + selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) is a combination therapy being evaluated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). Sulforaphane is a naturally occurring small molecule isothiocyanate, typically derived from broccoli sprouts, that serves as a potent activator of the Keap1-Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) signaling pathway. By activating Nrf2, sulforaphane induces the expression of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory genes, potentially addressing the oxidative stress and neuroinflammation implicated in the pathophysiology of depression. In this clinical context, sulforaphane is administered as an adjunctive (add-on) therapy to standard SSRIs (such as fluoxetine, paroxetine, fluvoxamine, sertraline, citalopram, or escitalopram) to enhance clinical efficacy and improve outcomes in patients with moderate to severe MDD. This specific combination and its impact on clinical symptoms and biomarkers are being investigated in a randomized controlled trial conducted by the Shanghai Mental Health Center.

Other names

Sulforaphane add-on to SSRIsSFN + SSRIsSulforaphane + SSRIs