The APPLAUD Study v.1 08.06.2017
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Attitudes and Preferences of People regarding Long-term Antidepressant Use for Depression (The APPPLAUD Study)
IRAS ID
222680
Contact name
Rachel Ryves
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Southampton
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 10 months, 30 days
Research summary
What are the attitudes and preferences of people regarding long-term antidepressant use for depression in primary care?
Between 2009-2013, the prevalence of depression rose by only 3.9%, while the number of antidepressant prescriptions rose by 36% over the same period, which is due to the rise of long-term use. While some of this long-term treatment may be indicated, much of it may be inappropriate, and patients could try stopping treatment. However, many people taking antidepressants are prepared to continue indefinitely, due to fears of relapse and a perception that discontinuation would be a threat to their stability.
The study looks at whether people who have been taking antidepressants for 2 years or longer have particular beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours towards their antidepressant use to manage their long-term depression. The study has two main aims. The first is to investigate whether particular psychosocial factors predict the intentions of individuals with long-term depression to continue or stop their use of antidepressants, and whether these intentions are translated into actual behaviour. The second aim is to explore what are patients’ beliefs, attitudes, and intentions towards long-term depression management and long-term antidepressant use in primary care?
Primary care patients who have been on antidepressant treatment for 2 years or longer will be asked to complete a questionnaire that asks them about their beliefs about their long-term antidepressant use. A small sample of patients that complete the questionnaires will be asked to take part in an interview that asks them about their views and understanding of long-term depression management and long-term antidepressant use in primary care. A notes review will be conducted 6 months after patients have completed the questionnaire to see whether they have been to see their GP for a review of their antidepressants.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Leeds East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/YH/0223
Date of REC Opinion
28 Jun 2017
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion