Vol 36, (4) 193-288
Depression and anxiety - Pharmacological treatment in general practice
Steven Ellen MBBS, MMed(Psych), MD, FRANZCP, is Head, Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria.
Rob Selzer MBBS, PhD, FRACP, FRANZCP, is Consultant Psychiatrist, Primary Mental Health & Early Intervention Team, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria.
Trevor Norman BSc, PhD, is Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, Victoria.
Grant Blashki MD, FRACGP, is Senior Research Fellow, Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, and Honorary Senior Lecturer, Health Services Research, Kings College London.
BACKGROUND Depression and anxiety are common presentations in general practice and medications are one of the key treatment strategies.
OBJECTIVE This article provides an overview of important practical issues to consider when prescribing medications for anxiety and depression.
DISCUSSION Key questions for the general practitioner to consider are:
- Are medications the best option?
- Which is the best medication for this patient?
- What are the practical aspects of prescribing this medication?
- What is the next step if it doesn’t work?
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