[Resistant depression].

Resistance to the pharmacological treatment, either complete or partial, is a common problem when treating depression. There are several possibilities to address this resistance: to switch to a different antidepressant, especially to an antidepressant with a different mechanism of action, or to associate a second drug (lithium, antidepressants, antipsychotics, buspirone, triiodothyronine). In parallel some other issues have to be considered (therapeutic compliance, comorbidities, pervasive psychosocial stress factors, associated somatic disorders) and treatment should always include psychotherapy and support to the family.