Key features of depression and its management in general practice.

 
"..I'm not like I was before"
Which of the following statements are true of the pharmacological treatment of major depression?
1. The majority of patients with major depression respond to antidepressant treatment.
2. All available antidepressants are equally effective if given at an adequate dose for a sufficient period.
3. Newer antidepressants and older antidepressants such as tricyclics or the monoamine oxidase inhibitors have an equal incidence of significant side effects.
4. Newer antidepressants have higher compliance rates than older drugs.
5. SSRIs are first-line treatment for depression requiring antidepressants.

2. All available antidepressants are equally effective if given at an adequate dose for a sufficient period.

Author's answer: True

Virtually all available antidepressants are equally effective if given at an adequate dose for a sufficient period. Evidence from controlled clinical trials in adults demonstrate newer antidepressants (such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)) and older antidepressants (such as tricyclics or the monoamine oxidase inhibitors) have a similar efficacy in the treatment of major depression.

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