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DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-45134
Algorithms for Optimizing the Treatment of Depression: Making the Right Decision at the Right Time
Publication History
Publication Date:
15 December 2003 (online)
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Medication algorithms for the treatment of depression are designed to optimize both treatment implementation and the appropriateness of treatment strategies. Thus, they are essential tools for treating and avoiding refractory depression. Treatment algorithms are explicit treatment protocols that provide specific therapeutic pathways and decision-making tools at critical decision points throughout the treatment process. The present article provides an overview of major projects of algorithm research in the field of antidepressant therapy. The Berlin Algorithm Project and the Texas Medication Algorithm Project (TMAP) compare algorithm-guided treatments with treatment as usual. The Sequenced Treatment Alternatives to Relieve Depression Project (STAR*D) compares different treatment strategies in treatment-resistant patients.
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Mazda Adli, MD
Charité - University Medicine Berlin
Campus Charité-Mitte (CCM)
Schumannstr. 20/21
10117 Berlin
Germany
Phone: +4-30-450-517 146
Fax: 030-450-517 962
Email: mazda.adli@charite.de