PURPOSE: A 12-week study to determine if antidepresssant treatment, escitalopram (Lexapro ®), is associated with greater improvement in asthma and depression symptoms. We will be examining the impact of antidepressant therapy on the use of oral corticosteroids (Prednisone), unscheduled asthma-related clinic visits, ER visits, hospital admissions, and breathing performance to determine if improvement in depressive symptom severity is associated with improvement in asthma symptom severity.

ELIGIBILITY: Physician diagnosis of asthma and currently receiving asthma treatment. Age 18-70 years old, male and female, English or Spanish speaking. No changes in asthma medications, oral corticosteroid (Prednisone) use, or respiratory infection treatment in the past 2 weeks (can schedule for 2 weeks after stabilized).

BACKGROUND:  The negative impact of substance abuse on bipolar disorder is well documented. Studies report decreased quality of life, increased hospitalization, and lower rates of recovery during hospitalization in bipolar patients with substance abuse. In addition, aggression and violence were significantly greater in bipolar disorder patients with a history of substance abuse. Substance abuse is also associated with medication non-compliance in patients with bipolar disorder.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What medication will I be given?
A: The study medication is a SSRI antidepressant called escitalopram or Lexapro. We do not provide any asthma medications as a part of this study.

Q: How long is this study?
A: The study is 12 weeks long, with a visit every other week. It is also possible that a patient may continue into another phase with one visit each month for four months.

Q: Will I be paid if I take part in this study?

A: Yes, you will be paid for each assessment and DART bus passes will also be provided as needed.