Endotoxin-Induced Inflammation Worsens Depressive Symptoms in Older Adults with Insomnia: JAMA
A new randomized clinical trial published in JAMA Psychiatry reveals that older adults with insomnia are significantly more vulnerable to depressive mood symptoms following inflammatory exposure than those without insomnia.
The study enrolled 160 nondepressed participants aged 60 and older, split into two groups based on insomnia diagnosis. Participants were randomized to receive either endotoxin (to induce inflammation) or placebo.
Researchers then tracked changes in mood using the Profiles of Mood States depression subscale (POMS-D), along with secondary measures of depressive symptoms and inflammatory cytokine levels. Results were striking. Compared to controls, participants with insomnia who received endotoxin showed a 3-fold greater increase in depressive mood (interaction F₁₀,₁₄₇₈ = 4.7; P < .001).
These effects persisted longer and were clinically meaningful. Interestingly, both insomnia and control groups had similar rises in cytokines, but only the insomnia group showed a link between inflammation and mood changes (β = 0.33; 95% CI, 0.26–0.41; P < .001). These findings highlight how insomnia may amplify emotional responses to inflammation, even in the absence of clinical depression.
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.