Response, remission and relapse in relation to adherence in primary care treatment of depression: a 2-year outcome study.
Non-adherence to antidepressant drug treatment is common. In a recent study in depressed primary care patients, we reported a strong relationship between adherence and response after 6 months. With the use of a naturalistic design, the patients in that study were prospectively followed for 2 years. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the patients' long-term outcome and, in particular, to examine the impact of patients' treatment adherence on response, remission and relapse. Of the 1031 patients in the intent-to-treat (ITT) sample, 835 completed the study. After 2 years, the overall remission rate defined as a Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale score of nine or less was 68% in the ITT sample analysed with the last observation carried forward (LOCF) technique, and 75% in observed cases. In total, 34% of the responders experienced at least one relapse. Response rates (LOCF) were significantly higher in adherent compared to non-adherent patients at week 24 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 21.4-32.1], year 1 (95% CI = 12.3-22.2) and year 2 (95% CI = 9.2-19.0). Remission rates (LOCF) were also significantly higher in the group of adherent patients at week 24 (95% CI = 9.6-21.5), year 1 (95% CI = 10.0-21.5) and year 2 (95% CI = 11.0-22.0). No relationship between adherence and relapse rate was observed, although the mean time from response to first sign of relapse was significantly longer in the adherent patients (95% C I= 9-97 days). In conclusion, this 2-year follow-up study showed superior long-term recovery in patients who were adherent to antidepressant medication compared to non-adherent patients.
Akerblad
Ann-Charlotte
AC
Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala University, Sweden. ann-charlotte.akerblad@uaspsyk.uu.se
Bengtsson
Finn
F
von Knorring
Lars
L
Ekselius
Lisa
L
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010349:Patient Compliance; D011320:Primary Health Care; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012008:Recurrence; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000928:Antidepressive Agents