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Long-term treatment of depression
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, Pa 15213.
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
|May 1, 1991
Summary
Long-term treatment for recurrent depression is crucial. While some antidepressants and lithium are effective, more research is needed on newer drugs and psychotherapy combinations for sustained prevention.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Recurrent depression is a significant public health concern.
- Long-term management is a clinical priority for individuals with repeated depressive episodes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence for long-term pharmacologic management in recurrent depression.
- To identify gaps in knowledge regarding antidepressant efficacy and combination treatments.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on preventive pharmacologic treatments for recurrent depression.
- Analysis of evidence for tricyclic antidepressants, lithium carbonate, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and newer antidepressants.
Main Results:
- Established efficacy of tricyclic antidepressants and lithium carbonate for long-term prevention.
- Uncertainty regarding the long-term efficacy of monoamine oxidase inhibitors and newer antidepressants.
Conclusions:
- Continued pharmacologic management is essential for most individuals with recurrent depression.
- Further long-term studies are needed for newer antidepressant compounds.
- The role of psychotherapy in combination treatment requires further investigation.