S Thio1, A J L M van Balkom. 1. Opleiding Psychiatrie, Postbus 47.077, 1070 BB Amsterdam. s.thio@ggzingeest.nl
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Following reports of new scientific research there are frequently discussions in the media about the effectiveness of antidepressants. AIM: To find out whether recently published meta-analyses about the effectiveness of antidepressants have consequences for clinical practice. METHOD: Two recent meta-analyses which investigated the effectiveness of antidepressants are discussed. results The two studies were conducted along similar lines using similar methods. Both meta-analyses concluded that antidepressants are effective in the more serious type of depressive disorders. They are less effective in mild depressive disorders. CONCLUSION: On the basis of these two meta-analyses it was concluded that antidepressants should be prescribed solely for patients with severe depressive disorders.
BACKGROUND: Following reports of new scientific research there are frequently discussions in the media about the effectiveness of antidepressants. AIM: To find out whether recently published meta-analyses about the effectiveness of antidepressants have consequences for clinical practice. METHOD: Two recent meta-analyses which investigated the effectiveness of antidepressants are discussed. results The two studies were conducted along similar lines using similar methods. Both meta-analyses concluded that antidepressants are effective in the more serious type of depressive disorders. They are less effective in mild depressive disorders. CONCLUSION: On the basis of these two meta-analyses it was concluded that antidepressants should be prescribed solely for patients with severe depressive disorders.