Clinical Article Summaries

<p>This retrospective study by Jain et al aimed to assess the use of atypical antipsychotics as first add-on treatment vs later add-on treatment in patients with MDD and to evaluate the potential impact of atypical antipsychotic line of therapy (LOT) on healthcare resource utilization (HCRU).</p>

<p>The results of a large, real-world study suggest that misdiagnosis of bipolar I disorder as major depressive disorder can be associated with significantly greater healthcare resource utilization and higher costs, particularly for mental health–related services, highlighting the importance of timely and accurate diagnosis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The results of a large, real-world study by Jain et al suggest there may be an incongruence between current prescribing patterns and guideline recommendations for bipolar I disorder, with high use of antidepressants and benzodiazepines despite limited recommendations for these agents.</p>

<p>The International Mood Disorders Collaborative Project found a significant correlation between anhedonia and self-reported cognitive impairment in adults with major depressive disorder (MDD), which may help to identify individuals with MDD who are at higher risk of cognitive decline over time.</p>

<p>O Donovan, et al identify characteristics of patients who experience depression before bipolar disorder.</p>

Lieberman et al reported efficacy and tolerability results from the first phase of the Clinical Antipsychotic Trials of Intervention Effectiveness (CATIE) study, which compared first- generation antipsychotic medication with second-generation antipsychotic medication in people with schizophrenia. McEvoy et al and Stroup et al then reported efficacy and tolerability results from the second phase of CATIE, which compared responses to subsequent therapy with a different second-generation antipsychotic in people with schizophrenia who discontinued their previous second-generation antipsychotic.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a chronic and disabling condition that affects up to 12% of men and 25% of women. MDD is recurrent, with many patients not achieving complete recovery between depressive episodes. The aim of treatment for MDD is remission, which is associated with improved functioning and prognosis.

<p>Chen, et al review the early benefits and challenges of telepsychiatry and discuss the role of digital health during the pandemic and moving forward.</p>