WiserAD: The Effect of a Structured Online Intervention on Antidepressant Deprescribing in Primary Care

Summary

The use of antidepressants (ADs) is increasing globally, including within Australia, which has one of the highest rates of AD prescribing. Despite clear benefits for many people, there is reason to believe that the ongoing use of these medications is often not properly monitored or stopped (deprescribed) when a person returns to better Mental health. This trial sets out to test how well an online support tool (WiserAD) can help patients and their general practitioner to manage the careful and appropriate reducing and stopping of antidepressants, in primary care patients.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

* 18-75 years
* Stable on AD for \>=12m (no depressive episodes)
* No history of recurrent depression
* Sufficient English language proficiency to provide informed consent
* No or mild depressive symptoms (PHQ-9)
* Low risk of Suicide or Self-harm
* Agree to consider reviewing their AD use
* Agree to be randomized into the study
* Willing to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Moderate/severe depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 ≥10) at study entry or history of severe or recurrent depression
* Experienced a major life event in the past 3 months, or foresee one occurring in the next 3 months (e.g. trauma, grief, loss of role, major health issue, financial crisis)
* Continued AD use indicated for other condition (e.g. anxiety)
* Currently prescribed a non-SSRI/SNRI AD, antipsychotic, or mood stabiliser
* No internet access.

Exclusion Criteria:

Those currently experiencing a major life event in the next 3 months Currently using ADs for any other health condition (other than depression) Currently using non-SSRI or SNRI ADs, antipsychotics, or other mood stabiliser medication Have no daily access to the internet

Conditions1

Browse More Trials