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The link between depression and autonomic dysfunction has attracted more attention since epidemiological studies have revealed that depressed patients have an augmented risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Former studies of autonomic dysfunction in major depression have shown inconclusive results.

To further elucidate the effect of depression and medication on autonomic function, 18 patients and 18 matched control subjects were comprehensively assessed once medicated and once non-medicated as well as after full clinical recovery.

Cardiac autonomic function was evaluated by measuring heart rate variability (HRV) parameters, and central autonomic tone was investigated by obtaining parameters of the pupillary light reflex (PLR).

Acutely depressed patients who had not taken antidepressant medication for 8 weeks prior to the investigation differed …