Full Text Full Text (PDF) Citation Map Email this article to a Colleague Similar articles in this journal Alert me to new issues of the journal Add to My Articles & Searches Download to citation manager Citing Articles via Google Scholar Articles by Otto, M. W. Articles by Reese, H. E. Search for Related Content Articles by Otto, M. W. Articles by Reese, H. E.

Combined Psychotherapy and Pharmacotherapy for Mood and Anxiety Disorders in Adults: Review and Analysis

ABSTRACT

Studies suggest a complex relationship between cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) and pharmacotherapy for the combined treatment of mood disorders and anxiety disorders. Combined treatment for depression may have beneficial effects when applied to patients with chronic depression and in cases to prevent relapse. In bipolar disorder there is evidence for a strong effect of psychosocial treatment on the course of the disorder. In the anxiety disorders, there are some benefits in the short term, but combined treatment may limit the maintenance of treatment gains offered by CBT alone. Combined treatment should not be considered the default treatment for mood and anxiety disorders, with the possible exception of bipolar disorder. Instead, decisions whether combined treatment is worth the added cost and effort should be made in relation to the disorder under treatment, the level of severity or chronicity, and the stage of treatment (e.g., acute vs. relapse prevention).

(Reprinted with permission from Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice, 2005; 12:72–86 )

Get information about faster international access.

Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2006 American Psychiatric Association. All rights reserved.

Home | Search | Current Issue | Past Issues | Subscribe | All APPI Journals | Help | Contact Us