Intervention protocol for deprescribing antidepressants in Primary Care: a randomized community clinical trial

e202510058

Abstract

BACKGROUND // The consumption of antidepressants has increased considerably worldwide, including in Spain. Despite their efficacy in cases of moderate to severe depression, their long-term use in mild cases is questioned. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a deprescribing intervention in Primary Care, to reduce the unnecessary consumption of these drugs and improve patients’ quality of life.

METHODS // A before-after community clinical trial will be carried out in an adult population, residents in an urban area of Cadiz (Spain), and with a prescription of antidepressants in the last year. Participants will be randomly selected and followed up for a determined period prior to consensus. The intervention will consist of a comprehensive evaluation of antidepressant treatment by a team of health professionals. Factors such as indication, dosage, and response to treatment will be evaluated, and the Hamilton Scale for anxiety and the Beck Inventory for depression will be used. In those cases in which it is considered appropriate, a gradual reduction or suspension of the drug will be proposed, always under medical supervision.

CONCLUSIONS // This research will contribute to generating scientific evidence on the safety and efficacy of deprescription in Primary Care, promoting a more rational use of antidepressants, and improving patients’ quality of life. The results obtained could have important implications for clinical practice and the development of clinical practice guidelines.