Growth in antidepressant prescriptions a $10B paradox

According to a study about the increase in antidepressant prescribing by primary care physicians (PCP) in the August issue of Health Affairs, these medications are routinely prescribed by PCPs for uses that may not be supported by clinical evidence. "Many people view psychiatric medications as enhancers of personal and social well-being, providing benefits well beyond these medications' clinically approved uses," the study says.