ABSTRACTS - World Psychiatric Association

Results from a recent market research study, conducted in 221
patients (self-reported depression) across Germany (n=103) and
Spain (n=108), found that 71% reported symptoms that took longer
to respond to antidepressant medication (n=150/221; 72 (70%) Germany,
78 (72%) Spain). The most common symptoms reported
included feeling sad or empty (48%), sleep problems (41%), inability
to enjoy life (31%), fatigue (27%), feelings of worthlessness (27%),
diminished ability to concentrate (24%), feeling agitated (21%) and
loss of interest (20%). These patient-reported symptoms are similar to
residual symptoms reported in clinical trials. The involvement of
patients in clinical decision-making has been shown to improve treatment
adherence, clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. However,
patient involvement in therapeutic decisions has been shown to be
minimal. A recent study in Italy showed that psychiatrists (n=16)
made minimal attempts to involve patients in treatment decisionmaking.
Further research is needed to more precisely characterise
residual symptoms, to assess the most appropriate management
strategies and to increase patient involvement in their own treatment.
SPS10.3.
TREATMENT DECISIONS IN DEPRESSION:
TARGETING TREATMENT TO ADDRESS RESIDUAL
SYMPTOMS
D.J. Nutt
Psychopharmacology Unit, University of Bristol, UK
Studies indicate that