Older Australians are disproportionately prescribed antidepressants, with 1 in 4 individuals aged over 65 years on these medications—double the rate of the general population. In residential aged care facilities, the figure is even more staggering, with nearly 3 in 5 residents prescribed antidepressants. These medications are often continued for an average of four years, far exceeding clinical guideline recommendations of 6–12 months for depression or 12 months for anxiety. This overuse contributes to risks such as falls, fractures, and emotional numbness, with limited evidence of long-term efficacy. Addressing this issue is critical to minimising harm and ensuring quality care for older Australians.
Identify patients who are long-term users of antidepressants
Assess each patient's clinical history and current indications for antidepressant use
Evaluate the appropriateness of ongoing antidepressant therapy, assess benefits and harms of treatment and consider referral for non-pharmacological options where available and appropriate
Engage in open and honest conversations with patients about their readiness and suitability for reducing or stopping antidepressant treatment
Develop a personalised tapering plan based on the patient’s current medication profile, comorbidities and preferences, ensuring gradual and safe reduction of the medication
This program is accredited for 4 hours of CPD, Educational Activities: 1.5 hours and Measuring Outcomes: 2.5 hours, satisfying requirements for professional development in areas of patient safety and medication management. Completion of a post-session quiz and an audit activity will secure your CPD credits.
"This module was incredibly insightful. The practical deprescribing tips and case-based approach made it easy to apply in my daily practice." – General Practitioner
"The focus on patient-centred care and communication gave me the confidence to start conversations about tapering with my patients." – Clinical Pharmacist
Funded by the Australian Government through the Quality Use of Diagnostics, Therapeutics and Pathology Program.
This is a Medcast Continuing Medical Education (CME) course.
This educational session is brought to you by Medcast and the Quality Use of Medicines Alliance.
This course is formally accredited for 4 hours of CPD.
RACGP Accreditation ID - 1080880
ACRRM Accreditation ID - 35162
Mini-audit
Duration: 4 CPD HRS
Educational Activities: 1.5 hours
Measuring Outcomes: 2.5 hours
Program Level Requirements: Culturally Safe Practice, Health Inequities
Areas Of Interest: Aged Care, General Practice, Mental Health, Quality Use of Medicines
Medical Practitioners
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