Antidepressants for the virtually eviscerated patient: options instead of oral dosing.
OBJECTIVE
Alternate ways of administering antidepressants when oral intake is impossible are discussed.


METHODS
Reviews of 1) the medical circumstances that preclude oral medication administration and 2) novel administration strategies for antidepressants were conducted.


RESULTS
Consultation psychiatrists not infrequently encounter depressed patients who lack a functioning gastrointestinal tract and who thus cannot absorb oral antidepressant medication. Under these circumstances, antidepressants can be administered intravenously, by rectal suppository, or topically.


CONCLUSIONS
There are options for administration of antidepressant medication when oral intake is impossible.
Koelle
J S
JS
Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla 92093-0804, USA.
Dimsdale
J E
JE
D000284:Administration, Oral; D000293:Adolescent; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D004333:Drug Administration Routes; D006801:Humans; D007422:Intestines / Q000293:injuries*; D008297:Male; D010349:Patient Compliance / Q000523:psychology; D012803:Sick Role; D014951:Wounds, Stab / Q000523:psychology*
D000928:Antidepressive Agents