The effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) and escitalopram in patients with depression and their effect on cognitive function was analyzed in a recent study.

70 patients with depression aged 18-65 years meeting the diagnostic criteria of ICD-10 were chosen and randomized into control group and observation group. The control group received escitalopram treatment, while the observation group received an additional HBO. All the participants underwent assessment with Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA) at baseline and 2, 4 and 6 weeks after treatment.

HAMD score differed significantly between the two groups, 2 weeks after treatment but not after 4 and 6 weeks of treatment. 

However, MoCA score differed significantly between the two groups 4 and 6 weeks of treatment. Thus, Escitalopram in combination with HBO shows rapid efficacy in the treatment of depression and has a specific effect on enhancing cognitive function.