Treating Depression: What Works Besides Meds?

Because you are concerned her suicidality will return, you revisit the pros and cons of taking an antidepressant. Although small amounts of antidepressants can be passed from mother to infant via breastmilk, the amount varies by specific medication, as do the potential risks. Mrs. S decides to resume taking paroxetine 20 mg/d and eventually, once her motivation improves, she’s able to add psychotherapy and exercise to her maintenance/relapse prevention regimen. After you discuss with her the possibility that B vitamin supplementation may assist in maintenance of remission, she adds L-methylfolate 7.5 mg/day to her regimen.

CORRESPONDENCE
Michele M. Larzelere, PhD; LSUHSC Department of Family Medicine; 200 W. Esplanade Avenue, Suite 409; Kenner, LA 70065; mlarze@lsuhsc.edu