AHRQ Evidence Review Assesses Treatments for Major Depressive Disorder

Second-generation antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy can alleviate symptoms for mild to severe major depressive disorder when used as a first step in outpatient treatment, according to a new AHRQ-supported systematic review. The review looked at the benefits and harms of second-generation antidepressants, psychological therapies, complementary and alternative medicine and exercise treatment options as first-step outpatient treatments for adults with major depressive disorder. The review also assessed second-step interventions for patients with major depressive disorder whose illness did not go into remission after it was first treated with second-generation antidepressants. Related research, which appeared online December 8 in BMJ, compared the benefits and harms of second-generation antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy for treating depression in adults. Clinicians providing initial treatment to patients with major depressive disorder should consider the patient’s history and preferences, following a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of treatment options. Select to access the systematic review.