Psychiatr. pro Praxi, 2009; 10(6): 280-281

Cost effectiveness of antidepressant treatment

MUDr. Jana Skoupá
Pharma Projects, Praha

Depressive disorders represent a significant burden for individuals, families and society. This is firstly due to high disease incidence and

prevalence, secondly due to notably costs for healthcare and social systems. The article gives an overview of international health-economic

literature with focus on cost-effectiveness. Results show that modern antidepressants (SSRI or non-SSSRI) are more cost-effective

compared to previously used tricyclic antidepressants (TCA). Improved cost-effectiveness corresponds with better safety and tolerability

resulting in higher treatment adherence. A combination of pharmacotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapies shows best results at

specialists, with costs per QALY (Quality adjusted life years) far below the willingness to pay thresholds.

Keywords: depressive disorder, SSRI, non-SSRI, TCA, cost effectiveness, cognitive behavioral therapy.

Published: December 1, 2009  Show citation

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Skoupá J. Cost effectiveness of antidepressant treatment. Psychiatr. praxi. 2009;10(6):280-281.
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