Why do patients discontinue antidepressant therapy early? A qualitative study
Mariesha Jaffray1, Amanda H Cardy, Ian C Reid
1Division of Applied Medicine (Psychiatry), University of Aberdeen , Aberdeen , UK.
The European Journal of General Practice
|October 29, 2013
Summary
Patients starting antidepressants often stop treatment early due to issues with ownership, knowledge, and support. Early healthcare intervention and shared decision-making can improve antidepressant adherence.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- General Practice
- Qualitative Research
Background:
- Current guidelines recommend long-term antidepressant use after symptom resolution.
- Sub-optimal treatment duration is common despite guidelines.
- Patient views on antidepressants evolve during treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore patient experiences with newly prescribed antidepressants.
- To identify factors influencing early antidepressant discontinuation.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative interview study in four Scottish general practices.
- Purposive sampling of primary care patients newly initiated on antidepressants.
- Verbatim transcription and thematic analysis of interviews.
Main Results:
- Twenty-nine patients participated in the study.
- Key factors influencing discontinuation were ownership, knowledge, and support.
- The patient journey had four critical time points for healthcare intervention.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare professionals should discuss patient knowledge and views on depression and antidepressants early.
- Patients desire active involvement in treatment decisions, information, and ongoing support.
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