ID-5184 Wonca Abstracts supplement A-K 13-10-23 - Flipbook - Page 329
WONCA 2023 Supplement 1: WONCA 2023 abstracts (A–K)
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Supporting the tapering journey: Development of an
online tool to assist the safe and effective deprescribing of
antidepressants in primary care
Dr Catherine Kaylor-Hughes, Charné Froneman, Zoe Allnutt, Ms Amy Coe, Prof Jane Gunn
The University of Melbourne
The use of antidepressants is increasing globally, and Australia has one of the highest rates of
prescribing in the world – with 86.6% of prescriptions being made in general practice. Despite the clear
benefits of antidepressants for many people, ongoing use of this medication is not always properly
monitored or ceased when a person’s mental health improves. There is also little support for patients
to reduce (deprescribe) their medication when the time is right for them.
The WiserAD randomised controlled trial (RCT) is attempting to address this issue through developing
an online tool to support participants and their general practitioners (GPs) through the deprescribing
journey.
Drawing on GP and patient perspectives and using an iterative, user-centred design process, a
pragmatic and patient-approved model of support for antidepressant deprescribing that aligns with
Australian deprescribing guidelines is currently being trialled in Victorian general practices. This will
help to determine if it serves as an effective tool for successful antidepressant cessation at six months.
It is anticipated that the use of an evidence-based, deprescribing support tool will lead to the
successful cessation of antidepressant medication in patients who are no longer clinically depressed,
resulting in an enhanced quality of life and cost saving over the longer term.
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