title: Chronic depression. Issues in long-term management.
abstract: Patients with protracted depression respond well to long-term maintenance antidepressant therapy. A precise diagnosis is a prerequisite to therapeutic decisions. Diagnosis may be missed and treatment inadequate if symptoms are attributed solely to aging or to life's circumstances. Proper dosage is determined by the patient's age and metabolic capabilities, and patient education increases compliance. Although the patient may deny the need for psychotherapy, continued support and a life review help the patient acquire insights and adjust to changes. The patient can sustain progress by keeping active, pursuing interests, and socializing. The aim of long-term antidepressant pharmacotherapy is to reduce morbidity, restore productive and optimal functioning, and enhance the quality of life. The attainment of previous levels of function is the gauge of success.
authors.affiliation: University of Louisville School of Medicine.
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Bacani-Oropilla
authors.forename: S B
authors.initials: SB
authors.lastname: Lippmann
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000639:Amitriptyline / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008134:Long-Term Care; D008297:Male; D011788:Quality of Life; D012008:Recurrence
chemical_list: D000639:Amitriptyline