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Knowledge Gaps and Systemic Challenges in Antidepressant Prescribing: Insights from Jordanian Psychiatry Practice
Bayan Abdulhaq1, Walid Sarhan2, Mohammed Saadeh3
1School for International Training, Brattleboro, VT 05302, USA.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)
|November 27, 2025
Summary
Psychiatrists in Jordan show gaps in applying antidepressant guidelines, with many not recognizing national standards. Improving guideline dissemination and professional development is crucial for optimal prescribing in low- and middle-income countries.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
- Global Health
Background:
- Antidepressant medications are vital for treating depression globally.
- Appropriate antidepressant use is critical in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) due to high mental health prevalence.
- Limited data exists on psychiatrist prescribing practices in LMICs, making Jordan a key case study.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess Jordanian psychiatrists' knowledge, attitudes, and prescribing practices for antidepressants.
- To identify challenges hindering optimal antidepressant prescribing in Jordan.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods approach combining a cross-sectional survey (n=108) and semi-structured interviews (n=4).
- Survey instrument adapted from existing tools, refined with international guidelines.
- Thematic analysis for qualitative data and descriptive/regression analyses for quantitative data.
Main Results:
- Psychiatrists had gaps in knowledge, with only 34.3% recognizing national guidelines and 37.4% finding international guidelines inapplicable.
- Inconsistent application of laboratory monitoring for metabolic side effects and routine consultation with internal medicine.
- Cautious attitudes towards prescribing for pregnant/lactating women; early-career psychiatrists showed lower engagement.
Conclusions:
- Systemic, clinician, and patient barriers impede optimal antidepressant prescribing despite valuing safety and outcomes.
- Enhanced dissemination of national guidelines, improved medication access, and continuous professional development are recommended.
- Findings offer insights for improving prescribing practices in Jordan and other LMICs.
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