The effects of medication on the psychoanalytic process. The case of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors

This paper deals with two analysands who developed serious symptoms of anxiety and depression during the middle phase of their analysis. The symptoms were severe enough to disrupt the previously established analytic process. After a consultation, both patients were put on a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Both responded well to the medication, not only in terms of symptom reduction but also in re-establishing the analytic process. Both patients made very little reference to medication after an initially negative reaction to the suggestion of a psychopharmacology consultation. The process of seeking a consultation, the prescription and monitoring of the medication, the concept of medications as parameters, and the possible reasons for the virtual absence of references to medication are discussed.