Management of depression. Current options for this highly treatable disorder

Depression is a common disorder that leads to substantial functional impairment and even death if untreated. Suicide rates in persons with untreated major depression can be as high as 30%. However, the disorder is treatable; pharmacotherapy in combination with psychotherapy is effective in up to 90% of patients. Established diagnostic criteria enable physicians to differentiate major depression from other psychiatric disorders and from somatic conditions that may mimic depression. Current treatment options include traditional antidepressant medications as well as the newer serotonin-reuptake inhibitors. Successful treatment depends on administration of an appropriate dose for an adequate duration.