Limits of New Antiosychotics for Treatment of Depression

Dr. David Salvage

1/26/2022

THE PROBLEMS WITH ANTIPSYCHOTICS BEING USED AS ADJUVANT THERAPY FOR DEPRESSION  

What’s going on with antipsychotics being used as antidepressants? For the past several years with the beginning of the antipsychotic Abilify being added to the treatment of depression with amazing success – many of the newer antipsychotics have been tried to help with treatment-refractory depression. The answer is:   This strategy is often highly successful in optimizing the response of conventional antidepressants which are beginning to lose their efficacy. The hard news about this is that it doesn’t come without a significant price.   Antipsychotics all work by decreasing a transmitter called dopamine.  Because of the reduction of dopamine, it leaves the patient open to movement disorders, which don’t always resolve when the antipsychotic is stopped.   The second problem is that they can frequently exacerbate problems that conventional antidepressants have – particularly weight gain and sexual dysfunction.   While each case is different,  the limitations posed on the treatment for depression is why we’re seeing such a strong interest in ketamine, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and even unipolar ECT – which has much fewer side effects than conventional ECT.  



Fantastic Psychiatrist - I can't say enough wonderful things about David Salvage. It's extremely difficult to find a psychiatrist who actually listens, takes their time with you and works 'with you' to find the right medication for whatever you are struggling with. David is a gem, and I would recommend him to everyone and anyone who is seeking quality care. David, besides everything I just mentioned is kind, extremely knowledgeable, and has such a calm presence. The office was amazing. It's super cozy and unique, and not sterile like so many other offices I've been to. You will not regret scheduling with him. Thank you, David!

Anonymous Healthgrades

Dr Salvage is a highly intelligent, generous, and sympathetic doctor. He is very gentle, listens intently, and makes you feel as if you are in a partnership aimed toward your best health. I recommend him highly.

P. Vitals

I've been a patient of Dr. Salvage for over three years. He is a true professional. He goes out of his way to provide excellent service. Dr. Salvage is a rarity in psychiatry. While he is a medical doctor, he has a highly humanistic manner and approach that makes you feel welcomed as soon as you walk into his office. I highly recommend him.

P.N. Google

Dr. Salvage has literally saved the lives of 2 of my family members. He is so kind and caring and his knowledge of psychopharmacology is amazing. Depression and anxiety are difficult to manage long-term and his therapy and med selection has taken us all from some very dark places into a more balanced life filled with happiness. We still struggle, but with Dr. Salvage’s care, we have hope again.

J.K. Google

4

Total Reviews

5

Average Rating

privacy We respect your privacy
*All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.