Key result
Patient recall of instructions to take selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors for at least 6 months reduced the odds of premature discontinuation by 61% (OR 0.39; p < 0.001).
Why the study?
Does patient education regarding treatment duration and potential adverse effects prevent premature discontinuation of SSRIs in patients with depression?
Does patient education regarding treatment duration and potential adverse effects prevent premature discontinuation of SSRIs in patients with depression?
Patients are significantly less likely to prematurely discontinue SSRI therapy if they are explicitly instructed to continue the medication for at least 6 months.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
May warrant emphasis on SSRI duration during counseling; leaves open whether education improves adherence in depression.
Bull et al. (2002) studied this question. Patient recall of instructions to take selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors for at least 6 months reduced the odds of premature discontinuation by 61% (OR 0.39; p < 0.001).
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