What's best when a patient doesn't respond to the maximum dose of an antidepressant?

Abstract

Consider possible causes of the inadequate response, then weigh treatment options in light of the characteristics of the individual patient and therapy. When managing a patient with nonpsychotic depression and inadequate response to the maximum dose of a single antidepressant, the physician should first identify factors that may contribute to the poor response, such as suboptimal dosage resulting from nonadherence, inadequate duration of therapy, and comorbid medical and psychiatric conditions (strength of recommendation [SOR]: C, expert opinion).