To combine or not to combine? A literature review of antidepressant combination therapy

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Treatment resistant depression is a common clinical problem and a major public health concern. The use of antidepressant combinations to overcome treatment resistance, while somewhat controversial, is a popular strategy in practice. This paper reviews published trials on combination antidepressants with a view to inform clinical practice. METHOD: A systematic but selective review of the published literature was conducted using EMBASE, PSYCHLIT and MEDLINE with relevant search terms. RESULTS: A number of trials suggesting efficacy of combination antidepressants were found. These are incorporated into a number of treatment guidelines for the management of treatment refractory depres..