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Review, 2001

What is the best treatment for depression and anxiety disorders, including PMDD?

SSRIs (a type of antidepressant) are the first-line treatment for most depression and anxiety disorders, as well as for PMDD. Other newer antidepressants are options if SSRIs don't work or cause side effects.

Moderate study design Not a study of specific people; a clinical review article

What they did

This is a literature review article that summarizes evidence about depression and anxiety disorders and recommended treatments.

What they found

SSRIs are recommended first-line because they are effective, require minimal dose adjustments, have favorable side effects, and have extensive clinical experience. PMDD is classified as a depressive disorder. Treatment considerations include therapy, medication, and when to refer to mental health specialists.

What it means for you

SSRIs are well-studied and recommended for PMDD by clinicians. However, this is a review article summarizing general recommendations rather than reporting results from a single study, so it cannot tell you whether SSRIs will work for you specifically.

2

Times more likely women are to have depression compared to men

About the study

Original title
Depression and anxiety disorders
Authors
Brown CS
Journal
Obstetrics and gynecology clinics of North America
Year
2001
Study design
Review
What was tested
SSRIs and other antidepressants

Topics