If we prescribe an antidepressant, what dose do we start and how do we increase it? A slower antidepressant up-titration may reduce side effects and improve initial adherence, but it may also delay clinical response
How do you individualize antidepressant prescribing? (Part 2) Read More »
Understanding the patient’s prior experiences with psychotropic medications allows you to individualize your prescribing – pick the right medication, the right starting dose, and the right titration for this person.
How do you individualize antidepressant prescribing? (Part 1) Read More »
Silexan, an OTC oral medication made of lavender extract is well tolerated and effective in treating GAD and subsyndromal anxiety. In studies, Silexan 160mg was slightly more effective than 80mg.
How do you use Silexan for anxiety? Read More »
Benzodiazepines are effective treatments for anxiety disorders in the short and long term. When treating anxiety disorders in low risk populations, the risk of dose escalation or tolerance to the anxiolytic effects of BZDs is very low.
A patient’s perception of the balance between efficacy and side effect burden is generally more important than the objective severity of a particular side effect.
How do you manage the side effects of SSRIs? Read More »
When choosing a second medication for a patient with generalized anxiety disorder on a dose-optimized SSRI or SNRI, you’ve got options!
What medication could you add to a dose-optimized SSRI to help with anxiety? Read More »
Mirtazapine (Remeron) is at least as effective as the SSRIs for depression, and is also commonly used off-label for anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia. Mirtazapine doses of 3.75-7.5mg are helpful for sleep maintenance. Higher doses (30-45mg) are necessary for the antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects.
What change could reduce anxiety in a patient with partial benefit from an SNRI? Read More »
