Key Points Background Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) refers to an inadequate response to at least one antidepressant given in sufficient doses and for an appropriate duration. History Despite the recent advances in treatment of depression, only 30%–40% of patients achieve remission…
Key Points The immediate mechanism of action of modern antidepressants (“immediate effects”) involves influencing the function of one or more monoamine neurotransmitter systems (serotonin, norepinephrine [noradrenaline], or dopamine). Influencing monoaminergic function has been shown to result in several changes in…
Overview The mental health professional in the general medical setting faces many challenges posed by co-morbid medical disorders and concurrent medications that hinder the detection of psychiatric symptoms and alter the effectiveness, tolerability, and safety of psychiatric drug treatment. In…
Overview A major depressive disorder (MDD) serious enough to warrant professional care affects approximately 16% of the general population during their life-time. Both the Epidemiological Catchment Area (ECA) study and the National Comorbidity Survey study have found that MDD is…
Key Points Background Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) refers to an inadequate response to at least one antidepressant given in sufficient doses and for an appropriate duration. History Despite the recent advances in treatment of depression, only 30%–40% of patients achieve remission…
Key Points The immediate mechanism of action of modern antidepressants (“immediate effects”) involves influencing the function of one or more monoamine neurotransmitter systems (serotonin, norepinephrine [noradrenaline], or dopamine). Influencing monoaminergic function has been shown to result in several changes in…
Key Points Incidence The annual incidence of major depressive disorder (MDD) is approximately 3%, and the average duration of an episode of MDD is 30 weeks. Epidemiology MDD is a prevalent disorder, with a global point prevalence of approximately 5%.…
Key Points Background Diagnostic rating scales provide validated measures of symptom severity in psychiatric disorders. Rating scales may be employed in both clinical and research settings. History The format of psychiatric rating scales varies widely in content, length, and administration.…