Refractory depression – does adding mirtazapine help?

10th December 2018, Dr Chee L Khoo

Treatment resistant depression is not that uncommon in general practice. We have quite a few patients that don’t respond to maximal dose of our usual SSRI or SNRIs. Naturally, we need to check adherence to medications and alcohol intake. A review of the history is important as there may be hidden skeletons unresolved (including sexual abuse).…

Weight gain with anti-depressants – is it real?

June 15, 2018, Dr Chee L Khoo

In primary care, we have to battle with the increasing incidence of obesity amongst our patients. We also have to battle with the patients with depression where anti-depressants are increasingly being prescribed. Obesity is associated with depression, which is particularly common in patients with severe obesity. Antidepressant treatment may also add on to our patients’ weight.…