Response to antidepressants study from the University of
Hull
26.02.08
Professor Steve Field, Chairman of the Royal College of General
Practitioners said: “The report from Hull University raises
important questions but describes nothing we didn’t know already,
namely that there is a big placebo effect and a large therapeutic
effect, brought about by the role of the GP in the patient
consultation.
GPs consider a large range of therapeutic interventions when
treating patients with depression. These include talking therapies
and exercise on prescription and we therefore welcome the
Government’s investment in psychotherapies which the RCGP has been
calling for for some time.
GPs do not prescribe anti depressant drugs lightly and will
consider this course of action only after a careful assessment of
the individual patient’s clinical condition. Anti depressants work
well for many patients with severe depression and patients should
continue to take their dosage as advised by their GP.
The important thing is for patients not to panic but patients
who have concerns should arrange to see their GP and discuss their
situation.”
Ends
For more information please contact the RCGP press
office 020 7344 3135/3136/3137/3129 or email press@rcgp.org.uk