 Key features of depression and its management in general practice. |
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"..I
had this once before.."
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Which
of the following statements are true in relation to long-term maintenance
treatment for recurrent major depression?
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1.
Two depressive episodes within 5 years is an indication for long-term
medications.
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2. Long-term treatment should be continued for at least 3 years.
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3.
Antidepressants of all classes are effective in the long-term prevention
of depression.
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4.
Lithium is effective in the long-term prevention of depression.
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5.
A reduced maintenance dose of 30 to 50 percent below the acute dosage
is as effective as a full acute dose in the long-term prevention
of depression.
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2. Long-term treatment should be continued for at least 3 years.
Author's answer: True.
If a patient is commenced on long-term treatment this should probably be continued for at least 3 to 5 years, after which time the need for further management should be reviewed. Some patients may require lifelong antidepressant therapy (1).
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