Augmentation of an Antidepressant with an Atypical Antipsychotic for Treatment of Major Depression

Authors

Amil Alie, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Psychiatry

Advisor

Nancy E. Reid, MHA, DHSc, PA-C, DFAAPA

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this article is to review the treatment benefits of chronic major depression with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) in addition to an atypical antipsychotic.

Method: A PubMed and Google Scholar literature search was conducted with search terms depression, augmentation, atypical, antipsychotic, second generation antipsychotic, and SSRI. Pertinent articles were retrieved, and they serve as the basis for this clinical review.

Results: From evidence-based research a substantial amount of randomized control trials were completed which demonstrated improved symptoms of major depression when an atypical antipsychotic was added to an SSRI.

Conclusion: The first-line medication for the treatment of major depression is an SSRI, however major depression can be difficult to treat in patients who have exhausted and maximized SSRI dosage and options. Adding an atypical antipsychotic to an SSRI proved to be successful in improving symptoms than with an SSRI alone.

Recommended Citation

Alie A. Augmentation of an Antidepressant with an Atypical Antipsychotic for Treatment of Major Depression. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2021; 3(2).