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OBJECTIVE: To underscore the need to attain remission in the treatment of depression, taking into consideration the appropriate definitions of response and remission, as well as the impact of residual symptomatology. METHOD: A review of research pertaining to successful response and remission of depression following antidepressant intervention, as identified by a comprehensive MEDLINE search. RESULTS: Complete remission is both critical and attainable with appropriate antidepressant therapy. CONCLUSION: While adequate response to antidepressant medication is desired, the ultimate goal of therapy is remission, the achievement of an asymptomatic state characterized by complete functional recovery.
Y. Lecrubier (Sun,) studied this question.