AN ANALYSIS of PBS dispensing data has revealed a steady increase in long-term antidepressant use in Australia, according to new research from the University of South Australia.

The study found that young people are particularly affected, with 45% of people aged 10-24 on antidepressants staying on them for more than 12 months, and a substantial number still using them after two years.

Lead author Dr Lasantha Ranwala said the findings show a critical shift in how the drugs are being used, raising concerns over potential overprescribing and inconsistency with guidelines that recommend review of their use after 6-12 months.

“Not only are more people taking antidepressants, but once they start, they are staying on them for longer,” Dr Ranwala said.

“While antidepressants play a role in managing moderate to severe depression, prolonged use can increase the risk of side effects and make withdrawal more difficult,” she said, highlighting a lack of meaningful improvement in efforts to wean people off them.

The authors called for a stronger framework for tapering antidepressants and better access to psychological care.

Read the study HERE.

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