Key to symbols
The medicine should be initiated by, or on the advice of a specialist, but is suitable for continuation by a GP
The medicine should only be used and prescribed by a specialist
Indicates the preferred choice within a class or group of medicines
4.3. Antidepressant drugs
4.3.4. Other antidepressant drugs
Preferred List
Total Formulary
DULOXETINE
Restrictions:
Restricted to psychiatrist initiation only as a third line therapy for major depressive episodes. The SMC has not recommended its use for generalised anxiety disorders.
VENLAFAXINE
Restrictions:
The immediate release preparation is restricted to use as third line agent for depression. The MR preparation is restricted to initiation on the advice of a consultant only. The CSM have advised that venlafaxine should not be used in children and adolescents under 18 years of age. The treatment of moderate to severe generalised social anxiety disorder/social phobia has not been accepted for use by SMC and is non-Formulary.