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Zhang MM, Tan X, Zheng YB, Zeng N, Li Z, Horowitz MA, Feng XZ, Wang K, Li ZY, Zhu WL, Zhou X, Xie P, Zhang X, Wang Y, Shi J, Bao YP, Lu L, Li SX. Incidence and risk factors of antidepressant withdrawal symptoms: a meta-analysis and systematic review. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02782-4. [PMID: 39394455 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02782-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 09/26/2024] [Accepted: 10/03/2024] [Indexed: 10/13/2024]
Abstract
Antidepressants are among the most extensively prescribed psychotropic drugs worldwide. Discontinuation induced withdrawal symptoms have been reported for almost all antidepressants. The incidence of antidepressant withdrawal syndrome (AWS) and other characteristics remain unknown. We searched the PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases from inception to December 31, 2023. Randomized double-blinded trials, longitudinal or cross-sectional studies that reported the incidence and other characteristics of antidepressant withdrawal symptoms were included. The pooled incidence of AWS was calculated by a random effects model. We included 35 studies, of which 2 studies just provided incidence of specific withdrawal symptoms, and 4 studies only described other characteristics. The pooled incidence of AWS from all available studies was 42.9%, from 11 RCTs was 44.4%, in studies in which the treatment duration was mostly 8-12 weeks, which usually appear within 2 weeks, and were generally measured for <4 weeks. The incidence in selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors was the lowest (29.7%), followed by selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (45.6%) and tricyclic antidepressants (59.7%), without significant differences (p = 0.221). Treatment duration showed a dose-response to the incidence of AWS (6-12 W: 35.1%, 12-24 W: 42.7%, >24 W: 51.4%). The half-life did not show such a simple dose-dependent relationship. The pooled estimate was robust regardless whether withdrawal symptoms were measured in RCTs or observational studies (including face-to-face and online survey studies). Tapering the dose reduced the incidence of AWS compared with abrupt stoppage (34.5% vs 42.5%), without a significant difference (p = 0.484). Risk factors for withdrawal symptoms included being female, younger, experiencing adverse effects early in treatment, taking higher doses or longer duration of medication, abrupt cessation of drugs, and those with a lower clearance of drugs or with serotonin 1A receptor gene variation. The findings suggest the incidence of AWS are common and some clinical characteristics and risk factors which can help clinicians identify who is at greater risk of experiencing AWS. Discontinuation studies on long-term antidepressant users with long follow-up periods are required in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi-Mi Zhang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Department of Psychiatry, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xuan Tan
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurobiology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yong-Bo Zheng
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Centre for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Na Zeng
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Department of Infection Control, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhe Li
- School of Government, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Mark Abie Horowitz
- Research and Development Department, North East London NHS Foundation Trust (NELFT), Ilford, UK
| | - Xue-Zhu Feng
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurobiology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Ke Wang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Zi-Yi Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology of National Health Commission, Translation Medicine Center, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei-Li Zhu
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyu Zhou
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Major Brain Disease and Aging Research (Ministry of Education), Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Peng Xie
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiujun Zhang
- School of Psychology, College of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, China
| | - Yumei Wang
- Department of Psychology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jie Shi
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Ping Bao
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, China.
| | - Lin Lu
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, China.
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China.
- Peking-Tsinghua Centre for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China.
- Institute of Brain Science and Brain-inspired Research, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Su-Xia Li
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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Wallis KA, Donald M, Horowitz M, Moncrieff J, Ware RS, Byrnes J, Thrift K, Cleetus M, Panahi I, Zwar N, Morgan M, Freeman C, Scott I. RELEASE (REdressing Long-tErm Antidepressant uSE): protocol for a 3-arm pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial effectiveness-implementation hybrid type-1 in general practice. Trials 2023; 24:615. [PMID: 37770893 PMCID: PMC10537226 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07646-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many people experience withdrawal symptoms when they attempt to stop antidepressants. Withdrawal symptoms are readily misconstrued for relapse or ongoing need for medication, contributing to long-term use (> 12 months). Long-term antidepressant use is increasing internationally yet is not recommended for most people. Long-term use is associated with adverse effects including weight gain, sexual dysfunction, lethargy, emotional numbing and increased risk of falls and fractures. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of two multi-strategy interventions (RELEASE and RELEASE+) in supporting the safe cessation of long-term antidepressants, estimate cost-effectiveness, and evaluate implementation strategies. METHODS DESIGN: 3-arm pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial effectiveness-implementation hybrid type-1. SETTING primary care general practices in southeast Queensland, Australia. POPULATION adults 18 years or older taking antidepressants for longer than 1 year. Practices will be randomised on a 1.5:1:1 ratio of Usual care:RELEASE:RELEASE+. INTERVENTION RELEASE for patients includes evidence-based information and resources and an invitation to medication review; RELEASE for GPs includes education, training and printable resources via practice management software. RELEASE+ includes additional internet support for patients and prescribing support including audit and feedback for GPs. OUTCOME MEASURES the primary outcome is antidepressant use at 12 months self-reported by patients. Cessation is defined as 0 mg antidepressant maintained for at least 2 weeks. SECONDARY OUTCOMES at 6 and 12 months are health-related quality of life, antidepressant side effects, well-being, withdrawal symptoms, emotional numbing, beliefs about antidepressants, depressive symptoms, and anxiety symptoms; and at 12 months 75% reduction in antidepressant dose; aggregated practice level antidepressant prescribing, and health service utilisation for costs. SAMPLE SIZE 653 patients from 28 practices. A concurrent evaluation of implementation will be through mixed methods including interviews with up to 40 patients and primary care general practitioners, brief e-surveys, and study administrative data to assess implementation outcomes (adoption and fidelity). DISCUSSION The RELEASE study will develop new knowledge applicable internationally on the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and implementation of two multi-strategy interventions in supporting the safe cessation of long-term antidepressants to improve primary health care and outcomes for patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION ANZCTR, ACTRN12622001379707p. Registered on 27 October 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine A Wallis
- General Practice Clinical Unit, Medical School, The University of Queensland, Herston, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia.
| | - Maria Donald
- General Practice Clinical Unit, Medical School, The University of Queensland, Herston, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Mark Horowitz
- NHS Foundation Trust, Research and Development Department, London, Northeast London, UK
| | | | - Robert S Ware
- Griffith University, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Joshua Byrnes
- Griffith University, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Karen Thrift
- General Practice Clinical Unit, Medical School, The University of Queensland, Herston, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - MaryAnne Cleetus
- General Practice Clinical Unit, Medical School, The University of Queensland, Herston, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Idin Panahi
- General Practice Clinical Unit, Medical School, The University of Queensland, Herston, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Nicholas Zwar
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Mark Morgan
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Chris Freeman
- The University of Queensland, Herston, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Ian Scott
- The University of Queensland, Herston, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
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Huijbers MJ, Wentink C, Lucassen PL, Kramers C, Akkermans R, Spijker J, Speckens AE. Supporting antidepressant discontinuation using mindfulness plus monitoring versus monitoring alone: A cluster randomized trial in general practice. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290965. [PMID: 37669281 PMCID: PMC10479886 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Discontinuing antidepressant medication (ADM) can be challenging for patients and clinicians. In the current study we investigated if Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) added to supported protocolized discontinuation (SPD) is more effective than SPD alone to help patients discontinue ADM. This study describes a prospective, cluster-randomized controlled trial (completed). From 151 invited primary care practices in the Netherlands, 36 (24%) were willing to participate and randomly allocated to SPD+MBCT (k = 20) or SPD (k = 16). Adults using ADM > 9 months were invited by GPs to discuss tapering, followed by either MBCT+SPD, or SPD alone. Exclusion criteria included current psychiatric treatment; substance use disorder; non-psychiatric indication for ADM; attended MBCT within past 5 years; cognitive barriers. From the approximately 3000 invited patients, 276 responded, 119 participated in the interventions and 92 completed all assessments. All patients were offered a decision aid and a personalized tapering schedule (with GP). MBCT consisted of eight group sessions of 2.5 hours and one full day of practice. SPD was optional and consisted of consultations with a mental health assistant. Patients were assessed at baseline and 6, 9 and 12 months follow-up, non-blinded. In line with our protocol, primary outcome was full discontinuation of ADM within 6 months. Secondary outcomes were depression, anxiety, withdrawal symptoms, rumination, well-being, mindfulness skills, and self-compassion. Patients allocated to SPD + MBCT (n = 73) were not significantly more successful in discontinuing (44%) than those allocated to SPD (n = 46; 33%), OR 1.60, 95% CI 0.73 to 3.49, p = .24, number needed to treat = 9. Only 20/73 allocated to MBCT (27%) completed MBCT. No serious adverse events were reported. In conclusion, we were unable to demonstrate a significant benefit of adding MBCT to SPD to support discontinuation in general practice. Actual participation in patient-tailored interventions was low, both for practices and for patients. (Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov PRS ID: NCT03361514 registered December 2017).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marloes J. Huijbers
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Carolien Wentink
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter L.B.J. Lucassen
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud Institute of Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis Kramers
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Reinier Akkermans
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud Institute of Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- IQ Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Spijker
- Expertise Centre for Depression, Pro Persona Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Anne E.M. Speckens
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Van den Eynde V, Abdelmoemin WR, Abraham MM, Amsterdam JD, Anderson IM, Andrade C, Baker GB, Beekman ATF, Berk M, Birkenhäger TK, Blackwell BB, Blier P, Blom MBJ, Bodkin AJ, Cattaneo CI, Dantz B, Davidson J, Dunlop BW, Estévez RF, Feinberg SS, Finberg JPM, Fochtmann LJ, Gotlib D, Holt A, Insel TR, Larsen JK, Mago R, Menkes DB, Meyer JM, Nutt DJ, Parker G, Rego MD, Richelson E, Ruhé HG, Sáiz-Ruiz J, Stahl SM, Steele T, Thase ME, Ulrich S, van Balkom AJLM, Vieta E, Whyte I, Young AH, Gillman PK. The prescriber's guide to classic MAO inhibitors (phenelzine, tranylcypromine, isocarboxazid) for treatment-resistant depression. CNS Spectr 2023; 28:427-440. [PMID: 35837681 DOI: 10.1017/s1092852922000906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
This article is a clinical guide which discusses the "state-of-the-art" usage of the classic monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressants (phenelzine, tranylcypromine, and isocarboxazid) in modern psychiatric practice. The guide is for all clinicians, including those who may not be experienced MAOI prescribers. It discusses indications, drug-drug interactions, side-effect management, and the safety of various augmentation strategies. There is a clear and broad consensus (more than 70 international expert endorsers), based on 6 decades of experience, for the recommendations herein exposited. They are based on empirical evidence and expert opinion-this guide is presented as a new specialist-consensus standard. The guide provides practical clinical advice, and is the basis for the rational use of these drugs, particularly because it improves and updates knowledge, and corrects the various misconceptions that have hitherto been prominent in the literature, partly due to insufficient knowledge of pharmacology. The guide suggests that MAOIs should always be considered in cases of treatment-resistant depression (including those melancholic in nature), and prior to electroconvulsive therapy-while taking into account of patient preference. In selected cases, they may be considered earlier in the treatment algorithm than has previously been customary, and should not be regarded as drugs of last resort; they may prove decisively effective when many other treatments have failed. The guide clarifies key points on the concomitant use of incorrectly proscribed drugs such as methylphenidate and some tricyclic antidepressants. It also illustrates the straightforward "bridging" methods that may be used to transition simply and safely from other antidepressants to MAOIs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jay D Amsterdam
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ian M Anderson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Chittaranjan Andrade
- Department of Psychopharmacology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Glen B Baker
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Aartjan T F Beekman
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michael Berk
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Tom K Birkenhäger
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Barry B Blackwell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Pierre Blier
- Departments of Psychiatry and Cellular & Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Bezalel Dantz
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush Medical College, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jonathan Davidson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Boadie W Dunlop
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ryan F Estévez
- College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Shalom S Feinberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - John P M Finberg
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Laura J Fochtmann
- Department of Psychiatry, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Biomedical Informatics, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | | | - Andrew Holt
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Thomas R Insel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Jens K Larsen
- Department of Affective Disorders, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Rajnish Mago
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - David B Menkes
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jonathan M Meyer
- Department of Psychiatry, UC San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - David J Nutt
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Gordon Parker
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mark D Rego
- Yale Institute for Global Health, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Elliott Richelson
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Henricus G Ruhé
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Stephen M Stahl
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Thomas Steele
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Michael E Thase
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Anton J L M van Balkom
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eduard Vieta
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, University of Barcelona Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ian Whyte
- Department of Clinical Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Allan H Young
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
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John R, Stevie L, Mark H, Joanna M. The need for antidepressant withdrawal support services: Recommendations from 708 patients. Psychiatry Res 2023; 326:115303. [PMID: 37364505 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Approximately half of the tens of millions of people currently taking antidepressants will experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to reduce or come off them. Nearly half of these describe their symptoms as severe in surveys. Many prescribing doctors seem ill-informed and unprepared to provide effective discontinuation advice and support, often misdiagnosing withdrawal as a relapse of depression or anxiety. 708 members of online support groups for people on antidepressants, from 31 countries, completed a sentence in an online survey: 'A public health service to help people come off antidepressants should include ................'. Two independent researchers categorised their responses into themes, and then reached consensus via discussion. Seven themes emerged: 'Prescriber Role', 'Information', 'Other Supports/Services', 'Strong Negative Feelings re Doctors/Services etc.', Informed Consent When Prescribed', 'Drug Companies' and: 'Public Health Campaign'. The most frequently mentioned requirements of the Prescriber Role were that prescribers be properly informed, provide small doses/liquid/tapering strips, develop a withdrawal plan and believe patients about their withdrawal experiences. The most frequently recommended other services were psychotherapy/counselling, support groups, patient led/informed services, nutrition advice, 24-hour crisis support and 'holistic/lifestyle' approaches. Many respondents were angry about how uninformed their doctors were and how they had been treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Read John
- School of Psychology, University of East London, London, UK.
| | - Lewis Stevie
- Unaffiliated Researcher, Lived Experience of Prescribed Drug Dependence, Cardiff, UK
| | - Horowitz Mark
- Mental Health Sciences Unit, University College London, London, UK
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Dietch DM, Kerr-Gaffney J, Hockey M, Marx W, Ruusunen A, Young AH, Berk M, Mondelli V. Efficacy of low carbohydrate and ketogenic diets in treating mood and anxiety disorders: systematic review and implications for clinical practice. BJPsych Open 2023; 9:e70. [PMID: 37066662 PMCID: PMC10134254 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2023.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is mounting interest in the potential efficacy of low carbohydrate and very low carbohydrate ketogenic diets in various neurological and psychiatric disorders. AIMS To conduct a systematic review and narrative synthesis of low carbohydrate and ketogenic diets (LC/KD) in adults with mood and anxiety disorders. METHOD MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and Cochrane databases were systematically searched for articles from inception to 6 September 2022. Studies that included adults with any mood or anxiety disorder treated with a low carbohydrate or ketogenic intervention, reporting effects on mood or anxiety symptoms were eligible for inclusion. PROSPERO registration CRD42019116367. RESULTS The search yielded 1377 articles, of which 48 were assessed for full-text eligibility. Twelve heterogeneous studies (stated as ketogenic interventions, albeit with incomplete carbohydrate reporting and measurements of ketosis; diet duration: 2 weeks to 3 years; n = 389; age range 19 to 75 years) were included in the final analysis. This included nine case reports, two cohort studies and one observational study. Data quality was variable, with no high-quality evidence identified. Efficacy, adverse effects and discontinuation rates were not systematically reported. There was some evidence for efficacy of ketogenic diets in those with bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder and possibly unipolar depression/anxiety. Relapse after discontinuation of the diet was reported in some individuals. CONCLUSIONS Although there is no high-quality evidence of LC/KD efficacy in mood or anxiety disorders, several uncontrolled studies suggest possible beneficial effects. Robust studies are now needed to demonstrate efficacy, to identify clinical groups who may benefit and whether a ketogenic diet (beyond low carbohydrate) is required and to characterise adverse effects and the risk of relapse after diet discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M. Dietch
- Lonsdale Medical Centre, London, UK; and Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jess Kerr-Gaffney
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Meghan Hockey
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Wolfgang Marx
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Anu Ruusunen
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland; and Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Allan H. Young
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Michael Berk
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Valeria Mondelli
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, King's College London, London, UK
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7
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Cooper RE, Ashman M, Lomani J, Moncrieff J, Guy A, Davies J, Morant N, Horowitz M. "Stabilise-reduce, stabilise-reduce": A survey of the common practices of deprescribing services and recommendations for future services. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282988. [PMID: 36920968 PMCID: PMC10016688 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Public Health England recently called for the establishment of services to help people to safely stop prescribed drugs associated with dependence and withdrawal, including benzodiazepines, z-drugs, antidepressants, gabapentinoids and opioids. NICE identified a lack of knowledge about the best model for such service delivery. Therefore, we performed a global survey of existing deprescribing services to identify common practices and inform service development. METHODS We identified existing deprescribing services and interviewed key personnel in these services using an interview co-produced with researchers with lived experience of withdrawal. We summarised the common practices of the services and analysed the interviews using a rapid form of qualitative framework analysis. RESULTS Thirteen deprescribing services were included (8 UK, 5 from other countries). The common practices in the services were: gradual tapering of medications often over more than a year, and reductions made in a broadly hyperbolic manner (smaller reductions as total dose became lower). Reductions were individualised so that withdrawal symptoms remained tolerable, with the patient leading this decision-making in most services. Support and reassurance were provided throughout the process, sometimes by means of telephone support lines. Psychosocial support for the management of underlying conditions (e.g. CBT, counselling) were provided by the service or through referral. Lived experience was often embedded in services through founders, hiring criteria, peer support and sources of information to guide tapering. CONCLUSION We found many common practices across existing deprescribing services around the world. We suggest that these ingredients are included in commissioning guidance of future services and suggest directions for further research to clarify best practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth E. Cooper
- NIHR Mental Health Policy Research Unit, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Education, Health and Human Sciences, University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Ashman
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Roehampton, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jo Lomani
- Independent Researcher, United Kingdom
| | - Joanna Moncrieff
- Research & Development Department, Goodmayes Hospital, North East London NHS Foundation Trust, Essex, United Kingdom
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anne Guy
- All–Party Parliamentary Group for Prescribed Drug Dependence, Secretariat 2016–19, 2020-Present, Westminster, United Kingdom
| | - James Davies
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Roehampton, London, United Kingdom
- All–Party Parliamentary Group for Prescribed Drug Dependence, Secretariat 2015–19, 2020-Present, Westminster, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola Morant
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Horowitz
- Research & Development Department, Goodmayes Hospital, North East London NHS Foundation Trust, Essex, United Kingdom
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Crowe M, Inder M, McCall C. Experience of antidepressant use and discontinuation: A qualitative synthesis of the evidence. J Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs 2023; 30:21-34. [PMID: 35713005 PMCID: PMC10083940 DOI: 10.1111/jpm.12850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: Rates of antidepressant prescribing have been increasing. Antidepressants are not effective for many people. WHAT THE PAPER ADDS TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: Participants described how in order to receive help they had to engage with a medical pathway in which their experiences were constructed as arising from a biochemical deficit. Antidepressant prescribing was identified as being the only option available and was associated with stigma. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: Mental health nurses have a role to play in providing treatment options for those experiencing depression. Mental health nurses need to provide evidence-based information about antidepressants support those experiencing depression to make informed choices. ABSTRACT: Introduction There are increased prescribing rates of antidepressants associated with an increase in the diagnosis of depression. However, antidepressants are not effective for many people. There is a gap in the existing literature for a synthesis of the experiences of those with lived experience of antidepressant use to better understand their use and impact given their ubiquitous use in mental health, primary care and other secondary and tertiary care settings. Mental health nurses play direct or indirect roles in both advocating for antidepressant use and monitoring adherence. Aims To identify how people prescribed antidepressants describe their experiences of the medication including its discontinuation? Method A meta-synthesis of qualitative studies examining patients' experiences of antidepressant medication. Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO and Cochrane Library databases were searched in May 2021. One reviewer screened titles and abstracts. Two reviewers independently reviewed the retrieved papers for eligibility and data extraction. The data synthesis was conducted using thematic analysis. Two reviewers independently conducted quality appraisals. Results Twenty-seven studies with a total of 2937 participants were identified for inclusion in this review. Four themes were identified across the studies: the only option available; stigma associated with 'biochemical deficit' not myself and the vicious cycle. Implications for practice Those seeking treatment for depression need to be provided with treatment options and evidence-based information about anti-depressants to provide them with the opportunity to make informed choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Crowe
- Dept of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, NZ, New Zealand
| | - Maree Inder
- Dept of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, NZ, New Zealand
| | - Cate McCall
- Centre for Postgraduate Nursing Studies, University of Otago, Christchurch, NZ, New Zealand
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9
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Horowitz MA, Framer A, Hengartner MP, Sørensen A, Taylor D. Estimating Risk of Antidepressant Withdrawal from a Review of Published Data. CNS Drugs 2023; 37:143-157. [PMID: 36513909 PMCID: PMC9911477 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-022-00960-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Adaptation of the brain to the presence of a drug predicts withdrawal on cessation. The outcome of adaptation is often referred to as 'physical dependence' in pharmacology, as distinct from addiction, although these terms have unfortunately become conflated in some diagnostic guides. Physical dependence to antidepressants may occur in some patients, consistent with the fact that some patients experience withdrawal effects from these medications. It is thought that longer duration of use, higher dose and specific antidepressants affect the risk of antidepressant withdrawal effects as they might cause greater adaptation of the brain. We searched PubMed for relevant systematic reviews and other relevant analyses to summarise existing data on determinants of antidepressant withdrawal incidence, severity and duration. Overall, data were limited. From survey data, increased duration of use was associated with an increased incidence and severity of withdrawal effects, consistent with some evidence from data provided by drug manufacturers. Duration of use may be related to duration of withdrawal effects but data are heterogenous and sparse. Serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors and paroxetine are associated with higher risks than other antidepressants, though data for some antidepressants are lacking. Higher doses of antidepressant has some weak association with an increased risk of withdrawal, with some ceiling effects, perhaps reflecting receptor occupancy relationships. Past experience of withdrawal effects is known to predict future risk. Based on these data, we outline a preliminary rubric for determining the risk of withdrawal symptoms for a particular patient, which may have relevance for determining tapering rates. Given the limited scope of the current research, future research should aim to clarify prediction of antidepressant withdrawal risk, especially by examining the risk of withdrawal in long-term users of medication, as well as the severity and duration of effects, to improve the preliminary tool for predictive purposes. Further research into the precise adaptations in long-term antidepressant use may improve the ability to predict withdrawal effects for a particular patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Abie Horowitz
- North East London NHS Foundation Trust, Goodmayes Hospital, Ilford, UK. .,Division of Psychiatry, University College London (Honorary), Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Rd, Fitzrovia, London, W1T 7BN, UK.
| | - Adele Framer
- SurvivingAntidepressants.org, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Michael P. Hengartner
- Department of Applied Psychology, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anders Sørensen
- Copenhagen Trial Unit, Centre for Clinical Intervention Research, Capital Region of Denmark, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - David Taylor
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK ,Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King’s College London, London, UK
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10
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Fornaro M, Cattaneo CI, De Berardis D, Ressico FV, Martinotti G, Vieta E. Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome: A state-of-the-art clinical review. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2023; 66:1-10. [PMID: 36345093 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2022.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Antidepressant drugs are prescribed to patients with depressive, anxiety disorders, and other conditions. Evidence about antidepressant discontinuation syndrome (ADS) and related outcomes is sparse, although potentially burdensome in some patients. The present state-of-the-art review aims to appraise the most current evidence about ADS critically. ADS has been documented for most antidepressant drugs, although most literature focuses on selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors prescribed for depression. While down-titration cannot exclude the chance of ADS, it is nonetheless warranted in the clinical setting, especially for short half-life and sedative compounds such as paroxetine. Integrative management with concurrent pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy may minimize the eventual unpleasant effects arising within the discontinuation process. In addition, patient-tailored interventions and education should be part of the discontinuation strategy. Future research must rely on broadly accepted definitions for ADS and related phenomena such as antidepressant withdrawal and shed further light on the underpinning neurobiology. Discriminating between ADS-related phenomena and relapse of depression is likewise warranted, along with a neuroscience-based nomenclature instead of a class one.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Fornaro
- Department of Psychiatry, Federico II University of Naples, via Pansini n.5, building 18, Psychiatry, Naples ZIP 80131, Italy.
| | - C I Cattaneo
- Department of Mental Health, Borgomanero ASL, Novara, Italy
| | - D De Berardis
- Department of Mental Health Psychiatric Service, Diagnosis and Treatment. Hospital "G. Mazzini", ASL 4, NHS, Teramo, Italy
| | - F V Ressico
- Department of Mental Health, Borgomanero ASL, Novara, Italy
| | - G Martinotti
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, "G. D'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy; Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Herts AL10 9AB, UK
| | - E Vieta
- Bipolar Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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11
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Deng F, Li X, Tang C, Chen J, Fan B, Liang J, Zhen X, Tao R, Zhang S, Cong Z, Du W, Zhao H, Xu L. Mechanisms of Xiong-Pi-Fang in treating coronary heart disease associated with depression: A systematic pharmacology strategy and in vivo pharmacological validation. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 298:115631. [PMID: 35987411 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronary heart disease (CHD) and depression are very common and often co-existing disorders. Xiong-Pi-Fang (XPF), a therapeutic classical traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, has shown satisfactory efficacy in treating CHD associated with depression. However, its mechanism of action is still unknown. PURPOSE To employ a systematic pharmacology approach for identifying the action mechanisms of XPF in treating CHD associated with depression. METHODS We used a systematic pharmacology approach to identify the potential active mechanisms of XPF in treating CHD with depression. Potential active compounds in XPF and the diseases targets were screened using relevant databases to build corresponding pathways, following the experiments that were conducted to confirm whether the presumptive results of systemic pharmacology were correct. RESULTS Network pharmacology predicted 42 key targets and 20 signaling pathways involved in XPF-mediated treatment, with IL-6/JAK2/STAT3/HIF-1α/VEGF-A pathway significantly affected. The common influences were hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis) and glucocorticoid signaling, validated through chronic unexpected mild stress (CUMS) with isoprenaline (ISO) for inducing CHD within the depression model in rats. In addition, XPF intake reduced depressive-like behaviors and improved ECG ischemic changes. Furthermore, XPF exerted some anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the interleukin-6 (IL-6) induced phosphorylation of janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), ultimately downregulating hypoxia-inducible factor 1-α (HIF-1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) activation. The dysfunctional HPA axis feedback loop was also regulated, which enhanced the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) expression. In contrast, it improved glucocorticoid resistance by reducing the mineralocorticoid receptor expression. CONCLUSIONS Suppressing IL-6 release and maintaining the HPA feedback loop balance could be the primary mechanism of XPF against CHD with depression. The significance of the IL-6 and HPA axis identified indicates their potential as essential targets for CHD therapy with depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangjuan Deng
- Graduate School, Tianjin University of TCM, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Xiaofeng Li
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin University of TCM, Tianjin, 300150, China
| | - Cheng Tang
- School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Jinhong Chen
- Graduate School, Tianjin University of TCM, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Boya Fan
- Graduate School, Tianjin University of TCM, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Jiayu Liang
- Graduate School, Tianjin University of TCM, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Xin Zhen
- Graduate School, Tianjin University of TCM, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Rui Tao
- Department of TCM, Tianjin University of TCM, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Shaoqiang Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin University of TCM, Tianjin, 300150, China
| | - Zidong Cong
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin University of TCM, Tianjin, 300150, China
| | - Wuxun Du
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin University of TCM, Tianjin, 300150, China.
| | - Hucheng Zhao
- Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
| | - Liang Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China; Tianjin Medical College, Tianjin, 300222, China.
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12
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Boland M, Higgins A, Beecher C, Bracken P, Burn W, Cody A, Framer A, Gronlund TA, Horowitz M, Huff C, Jayacodi S, Keating D, Kessler D, Konradsson Geuken A, Lamberson N, Montagu L, Osborne B, Smith R, Cadogan C. Priorities for future research on reducing and stopping psychiatric medicines using a James Lind Alliance priority setting partnership: The PROTECT study protocol. HRB Open Res 2022; 5:72. [PMID: 37636245 PMCID: PMC10450262 DOI: 10.12688/hrbopenres.13649.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: There is a growing number of service users looking to discontinue use of psychiatric medicines. Tapering is the recommended approach for reducing and/or discontinuing the use of psychiatric medicines. This involves gradually reducing the dose over time to minimise the potential for withdrawal symptoms. However, many uncertainties exist regarding the process of reducing and stopping psychiatric medicines. This study will use a James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership to determine the Top 10 unanswered questions and uncertainties about reducing and stopping psychiatric medicines. Methods : The Priority Setting Partnership will be conducted using the James Lind Alliance methodology. It will involve seven stages: (i) creating an international Steering Group of representatives from key stakeholder groups that will include people with lived experience of taking and/or stopping psychiatric medicines, family members, carers/supporters and healthcare professionals, and identifying potential partners to support key activities (e.g. dissemination); (ii) gathering uncertainties about reducing and stopping psychiatric medicines from key stakeholders using an online survey; (iii) data processing and summarising the survey responses; (iv) checking the summary questions against existing evidence and verifying uncertainties; (v) shortlisting the questions using a second online survey; (vi) determining the Top 10 research questions through an online prioritisation workshop; (vii) disseminating results. Conclusions : This study will use a Priority Setting Partnership to generate a Top 10 list of research questions and uncertainties about reducing and stopping psychiatric medicines. This list will help to guide future research and deliver responsive and strategic allocation of research resources, with a view to ultimately improving the future health and well-being of individuals who are taking psychiatric medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Boland
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Agnes Higgins
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Claire Beecher
- Evidence Synthesis Ireland and Cochrane Ireland, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Pat Bracken
- Independent Consultant Psychiatrist, West Cork, Ireland
| | - Wendy Burn
- Past President of, Royal College of Psychiatrists, England, UK
- Consultant Psychiatrist, Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, England, UK
| | - Anne Cody
- Health Research Board, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | | | - Mark Horowitz
- Research and Development Department, Goodmayes Hospital, North East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - David Kessler
- Centre for Academic Mental Health, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, England, UK
| | - Asa Konradsson Geuken
- Section of Neuropharmacology and Addiction Research, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Sweden, Sweden
- European Federation of Associations of Families of People with Mental Illness, Belgium, Belgium
| | - Nicole Lamberson
- Benzodiazepine Information Coalition, Utah, USA
- International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal, United Kingdom, UK
- Inner Compass Initiative's The Withdrawal Project, United States, USA
| | - Luke Montagu
- Council for Evidence-based Psychiatry, United Kingdom, UK
| | - Brian Osborne
- Irish College of General Practitioners, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Cathal Cadogan
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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13
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Moncrieff J, Jakobsen JC, Bachmann M. Later is not necessarily better: limitations of survival analysis in studies of long-term drug treatment of psychiatric conditions. BMJ Evid Based Med 2022; 27:246-250. [PMID: 34556539 PMCID: PMC9340015 DOI: 10.1136/bmjebm-2021-111743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Survival analysis is routinely used to assess differences between groups in relapse prevention and treatment discontinuation studies involving people with long-term psychiatric conditions. The actual outcome in survival analysis is 'time to event', yet, in the mental health field, there has been little consideration of whether a temporary delay to relapse is clinically relevant in a condition that can last for decades. Moreover, in psychiatric drug trials, a pattern of elevated early relapses following randomisation to placebo or no treatment is common. This may be the result of the withdrawal of previous treatment leading to physiological withdrawal effects, which may be mistaken for relapse, or genuine relapse precipitated by the process of withdrawal. Such withdrawal effects typically produce converging survival curves eventually. They inevitably lead to differences in time to relapse, even when there is little or no difference in the cumulative risk of relapse at final follow-up. Therefore, statistical tests based on survival analyses can be misleading because they obscure these withdrawal effects. We illustrate these difficulties in a trial of antipsychotic reduction versus maintenance, and a trial of prophylactic esketamine in people with treatment-resistant depression. Both illustrate withdrawal-related effects that underline the importance of long-term follow-up and question the use of tests based on time to event. Further discussion of the most relevant outcome and appropriate approach to analysis, and research on patient and carer preferences is important to inform the design of future trials and interpretation of existing ones.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Janus Christian Jakobsen
- Copenhagen Trial Unit, Centre for Clinical Intervention Research, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Regional Health Research, The Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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14
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Abstract
The dominant view within mental health services and research suggests that feeling depressed is a kind of medical illness, partially caused by various biological deficits which are somehow corrected by physical interventions. This article critically appraises evidence for the effectiveness and value of antidepressant drugs and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), the two principle physical treatments recommended for depression. It also describes the negative effects of these interventions and raises concerns about how they impact the brain. We propose an alternative understanding that recognises depression as an emotional and meaningful response to unwanted life events and circumstances. This perspective demands that we address the social conditions that make depression likely and suggests that a combination of politics and common sense needs to guide us in providing help for one another when we are suffering in this way. This alternative view is increasingly endorsed around the world, including by the United Nations, the World Health Organization and service users who have suffered negative consequences of physical treatments that modify brain functions in ways that are not well-understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Read
- School of Psychology, University of East London, London E15 4LZ, UK
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15
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Tunc EB, Tunc S. Vortioxetine Induced Hypomania: A Case Presentation and Review of the Literature. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE 2022; 20:394-397. [PMID: 35466110 PMCID: PMC9048002 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2022.20.2.394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Antidepressant-induced hypomania/mania is a complex issue that can be seen in mood disorders but is not clarified. There are case reports in the literature regarding vortioxetine-induced mania and hypomania; however, there is insufficient data. Here, we aim to present a case of vortioxetine-induced hypomania in a major depressive disorder patient who previously used various antidepressants but did not experience hypomania or mania. Our case is expected to contribute to the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Serhat Tunc
- Department of Psychiatry, Kafkas University Faculty of Medicine, Kars, Turkey
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16
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Anjum RL, Chandler RE, Rocca E. Dispositions and Causality Assessment in Pharmacovigilance: Proposing the Dx3 Approach for Assessing Causality with Small Data Sets. Pharmaceut Med 2022; 36:153-161. [PMID: 35486326 PMCID: PMC9217857 DOI: 10.1007/s40290-022-00429-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
A new approach is proposed for assessing causality in pharmacovigilance. The Dx3 approach is designed to qualitatively evaluate three types of dispositions when assessing whether a particular medicine has or could have caused a certain adverse event. These are: the drug disposition; the pre-disposition of the patient taking the drug (vulnerability) and; the disposition of the patient–drug interaction (mutuality). Each of these three types of dispositions will represent valuable causally relevant evidence for assessing a potential signal of harm. A checklist is provided to guide the assessment of causality for both single individual case safety reports (ICSRs) and case series. Different types of causal information are ranked according to how well suited they are for establishing a disposition. Two case examples are used to demonstrate how the approach can be used in practice for assessment purposes. One aim of the approach is to offer a qualitative way to assess causality and to make the reasoning of different assessors more transparent. A second aim is to encourage the collection of more qualitatively rich patient narratives in the ICSRs. Crucially, we believe this approach can support the inclusion of the single ICSR as a valid and valuable form of evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elena Rocca
- Department of Life Sciences and Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway.
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17
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Horowitz MA, Taylor D. Distinguishing relapse from antidepressant withdrawal: clinical practice and antidepressant discontinuation studies. BJPSYCH ADVANCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1192/bja.2021.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY
We now recognise that withdrawal symptoms from antidepressants are common, and can be severe and long-lasting in some people. Many withdrawal symptoms overlap with symptoms of anxiety or depression, making it difficult to distinguish withdrawal from relapse. We describe how their onset soon after dose reduction, the association of psychological with physical symptoms, their prompt response to reinstatement, and their typical ‘wave’ pattern of onset, peak and resolution can help distinguish withdrawal symptoms from relapse. We also examine evidence that suggests that antidepressant withdrawal symptoms are misdiagnosed as relapse in discontinuation studies aimed at demonstrating the ability of antidepressants to prevent future relapse (relapse prevention properties). In these discontinuation studies people have their antidepressants stopped abruptly, or rapidly, making withdrawal symptoms very likely, and little effort is made to measure withdrawal symptoms or distinguish them from relapse. We conclude that there is currently no robust evidence for the relapse prevention properties of antidepressants, and current guidance might need to be re-evaluated.
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18
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Bschor T, Bonnet U, Pitzer M, Baethge C, Lieb K, Gertz HJ, Müller-Oerlinghausen B. [Stopping antidepressants: withdrawal symptoms and rebound effects : Review and practical recommendations]. DER NERVENARZT 2022; 93:93-101. [PMID: 34978577 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-021-01243-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Stopping antidepressants can cause withdrawal (discontinuation) symptoms, the return of the original illness, and rebound. The latter means that the disease will return stronger, faster, or with greater likelihood than if it had not been treated with medication. The Psychiatry Working Group of the Drug Commission of the German Medical Association (AkdÄ) presents the scientific findings and provides practical recommendations for action. Withdrawal symptoms are multiform; unspecific physical symptoms are predominant. Distinguishing them from the recurrence of depressive symptoms can be difficult. Most of them are mild and self-limiting. There is insufficient evidence on the extent and frequency of rebound depression. The rebound risk implies that when establishing the medication, the short-term benefit must be weighed against the possible long-term risk of chronic depression or the possible need for long-term medication. Patients should be informed about the risk of withdrawal both as early as the joint decision-making process about treatment initiation and regularly during the course of treatment. Withdrawal should take place gradually, except in emergency situations, whereby small steps should be taken, especially in the low-dose range.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Bschor
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307, Dresden, Deutschland.
- Arzneimittelkommission der deutschen Ärzteschaft (AkdÄ), Berlin, Deutschland.
| | - U Bonnet
- Arzneimittelkommission der deutschen Ärzteschaft (AkdÄ), Berlin, Deutschland
- Klinik für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie und Psychosomatik, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Castrop-Rauxel, Castrop-Rauxel, Deutschland
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Medizinische Fakultät, LVR-Klinikum Essen, Universität Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Deutschland
| | - M Pitzer
- Arzneimittelkommission der deutschen Ärzteschaft (AkdÄ), Berlin, Deutschland
- Vitos Kinder- und Jugendklinik für psychische Gesundheit Eltville, Eltville, Deutschland
| | - C Baethge
- Arzneimittelkommission der deutschen Ärzteschaft (AkdÄ), Berlin, Deutschland
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Köln, Köln, Deutschland
| | - K Lieb
- Arzneimittelkommission der deutschen Ärzteschaft (AkdÄ), Berlin, Deutschland
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universitätsmedizin Mainz, Mainz, Deutschland
| | - H-J Gertz
- Arzneimittelkommission der deutschen Ärzteschaft (AkdÄ), Berlin, Deutschland
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Leipzig, Deutschland
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19
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Horowitz M, Wilcock M. Newer generation antidepressants and withdrawal effects: reconsidering the role of antidepressants and helping patients to stop. Drug Ther Bull 2022; 60:7-12. [PMID: 34930807 DOI: 10.1136/dtb.2020.000080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In England, the prescribing of antidepressants, primarily the newer generation antidepressant classes, has steadily increased over recent years. There is ongoing debate about how the efficacy of these drugs is viewed, their place in therapy and the harms associated with stopping them. Much of the evidence of their efficacy comes from short-term placebo-controlled trials which tend not to include outcomes that are of greatest relevance to patients, such as social functioning or quality of life, but rather restrict outcomes narrowly to symptom measures. On such measures these studies do not demonstrate clinically significant differences from placebo for depression. A range of adverse effects are also recognised, often greater in naturalistic studies of long-term antidepressants users than those measured in short-term efficacy studies, including emotional numbing, sexual difficulties, fatigue and weight gain. There is increasing recognition that withdrawal symptoms from antidepressants are common and that these symptoms can be severe and long-lasting in some patients. Recent guidance on how to stop antidepressants in a tolerable way has been presented by the Royal College of Psychiatrists. We believe that increasing awareness about the difficulty that some patients have in stopping antidepressants should lead to more cautious prescribing practice, with antidepressants given to fewer patients and for shorter periods of time. This article discusses the perceived benefits and harms of antidepressant use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Horowitz
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
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20
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mu-Hong Chen
- Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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21
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Tapering antidepressants: why do tens of thousands turn to Facebook groups for support? Br J Gen Pract 2021; 71:315. [PMID: 34319884 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp21x716309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
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22
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Sierra MDC. Síndrome de retirada tras el tratamiento continuado con antidepresivos. CLÍNICA CONTEMPORÁNEA 2021. [DOI: 10.5093/cc2021a5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Framer A. What I have learnt from helping thousands of people taper off antidepressants and other psychotropic medications. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol 2021; 11:2045125321991274. [PMID: 33796265 PMCID: PMC7970174 DOI: 10.1177/2045125321991274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although psychiatric drug withdrawal syndromes have been recognized since the 1950s - recent studies confirm antidepressant withdrawal syndrome incidence upwards of 40% - medical information about how to safely go off the drugs has been lacking. To fill this gap, over the last 25 years, patients have developed a robust Internet-based subculture of peer support for tapering off psychiatric drugs and recovering from withdrawal syndrome. This account from the founder of such an online community covers lessons learned from thousands of patients regarding common experiences with medical providers, identification of adverse drug reactions, risk factors for withdrawal, tapering techniques, withdrawal symptoms, protracted withdrawal syndrome, and strategies to cope with symptoms, in the context of the existing scientific literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adele Framer
- SurvivingAntidepressants.org, San Francisco,
California, USA
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Groot PC, van Os J. Successful use of tapering strips for hyperbolic reduction of antidepressant dose: a cohort study. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol 2021; 11:20451253211039327. [PMID: 34471516 PMCID: PMC8404667 DOI: 10.1177/20451253211039327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tapering strips facilitate antidepressant discontinuation, allowing for personalised titration of discontinuation to the intensity of withdrawal. A tapering strip consists of antidepressant or other medication, packaged in a 28-day roll of daily pouches, each with the same or slightly lower dose than the one before. Previous studies demonstrated 70% real-world effectiveness of tapering strips. Here, we present a third, questionnaire-based retrospective cohort study in a large sample. METHODS Patients whose doctor had prescribed tapering strips between October 2015 and December 2018 were sent a questionnaire for participation after completion of tapering between December 2015 and January 2020. Of 1240 individuals who returned a questionnaire (response rate: 59%), 987 (80%) used an antidepressant, of whom 824 (83%) had wished to discontinue their antidepressant. RESULTS The sample was demographically representative of antidepressant users in the Netherlands. Less than 40% of participants had heard of tapering strips through their clinicians - Internet was the most frequent source. Of the 824 individuals, 341 (41%) had used strips for tapering venlafaxine, 206 (25%) for paroxetine and 277 (34%) for other antidepressants. Median duration of antidepressant use was 5-10 years, and most (71%) had tried to come off without tapering strips at least once. Most patients (72%) were able to discontinue their antidepressant, using a median of two strips to taper over a median period of 56 days. Females and individuals with (1) more severe experience of withdrawal during the use of tapering strips, (2) more years of use of antidepressant medication and (3) more previous attempts at discontinuation were less likely to be able to discontinue their antidepressant medication with tapering strips. CONCLUSION The results of this study validate, for the third time, the observation that tapering strips can address the problem of antidepressant withdrawal symptoms in individuals attempting to discontinue antidepressants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter C Groot
- User Research Centre Netherlands, UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jim van Os
- Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Postbus 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
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