THE RATIONALE FOR LONG-TERM ANTIDEPRESSANT THERAPY

Most depressive disorders can be viewed as recurrent conditions that may reduce quality of life and productivity. Results of controlled clinical trials indicate that patients should receive 4-6 months of continuation therapy after remission of the acute phase of the illness. Patients at risk of recurrent episodes, however, should receive maintenance pharmacotherapy as depressive disorders appear to become more severe and potentially refractory with each new episode. This paper reviews a rationale and practical guidelines for long-term treatment of depressive disorders.