20 January 2006

With better management of depression in the Australian community remaining a priority for clinicians and consumers the National Prescribing Service Limited (NPS) has reviewed the latest research to develop an Effective use of antidepressants educational program for general practitioners, pharmacists and other health professionals.

Depression affects around one in seven Australians whose first stop for help is usually the local GP. Depression symptoms and levels of impairment can range from mild to moderate or severe.

“The availability of antidepressant medications and improved access to non-drug treatment options requires general practitioners and other health professionals to stay on top of new research evidence in choosing between non-drug and drug treatment,” said Judith Mackson, NPS Education and Quality Assurance Program Manager.

“NPS’s focus on quality use of medicines means that we are in a unique position to provide GPs and pharmacists with information to support clinical choices and information for patients who are prescribed antidepressants,” she said.

Successful treatment of depression typically involves assessment and education about the condition prior to discussing treatment options.

The “Effective use of antidepressants” program notes that non-drug treatments should be considered first in mild depression. Antidepressant medications are effective in moderate to severe depression but a combination of drug therapy and non-drug treatments may be recommended. It is well known that antidepressants should be continued for at least 6 months after symptoms improve to prevent relapse, but despite this around 50% of patients stop antidepressants too early.

Using adult education, social marketing and behaviour change principles NPS has developed new, educational programs for GPs, other medical specialists, pharmacists, practice nurses and other health professionals and these are currently being implemented.

“Over 80 Divisions of General Practice across Australia will partner with NPS to rollout the new program for health professionals from November 2005. Information updates will be provided throughout to support and improve the treatment and management of depression” added Ms Mackson.

END

National Prescribing Service Limited (NPS) is a member-based organisation providing accurate, balanced, evidence-based information and services to health professionals and the community on Quality Use of Medicines (QUM). To achieve this we work in partnership with GPs, pharmacists, specialists, other health professionals, government, pharmaceutical industry, consumer organisations and the community.