title: Antidepressant pharmacotherapy.
abstract: Antidepressant drugs are indicated for prolonged depression accompanied by the typical physiologic dysfunctions. They are not recommended for grief reactions. Suicide potential is actively monitored. Pregnancy requires special attention. The most significant risks of antidepressant therapy are cardiac conduction prolongation and anticholinergic effects. Overdoses are dangerous. Antidepressants are prescribed only after a careful work-up, and therapy is continued in a supervised manner with close observation for side effects.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000437:Alcoholism / Q000150:complications; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000008:administration & dosage; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D001145:Arrhythmias, Cardiac / Q000139:chemically induced; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D004347:Drug Interactions; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D013406:Suicide, Attempted / Q000523:psychology
chemical_list: D000927:Anticonvulsants; D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents