Antidepressant Informed Consent Form

This consent form outlines the agreement between the patient and Aspire Medical Group regarding the use of antidepressants as part of the patient’s treatment plan. It is important for the patient to understand the potential risks, benefits, and responsibilities associated with antidepressant use to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Antidepressants are a class of medications commonly used to treat mood disorders such as major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. They help improve mood, sleep, and appetite, and can reduce feelings of anxiety, worthlessness, and hopelessness.

Antidepressants work by altering the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, to improve mood and emotional stability. These medications can take several weeks to show their full therapeutic effect and may be prescribed for long-term management of mental health conditions, particularly when patients have not responded to other forms of treatment.

Benefits When Used as Directed

• When taken as prescribed, antidepressants may offer significant therapeutic benefits, such as:
• Improvement in mood and feelings of well-being Reduction in anxiety and irritability Better sleep quality Enhanced energy levels Relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, and related disorders

Common Side Effects

Common side effects of antidepressants may include:

• Nausea Headache Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Insomnia
• Weight gain or loss
• Sexual side effects (e.g., reduced libido)

Serious Risks and Considerations

• Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior: Antidepressants may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in some individuals, particularly in children, adolescents, and young adults during the first few months of treatment or when the dosage is changed. Close monitoring is essential.
• Serotonin Syndrome: A rare but potentially life-threatening condition caused by too much serotonin, often due to interactions with other medications. Symptoms include confusion, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, and hallucinations.
• Discontinuation Syndrome: Stopping antidepressants abruptly may cause withdrawal-like symptoms such as dizziness, irritability, and flu-like symptoms. Antidepressants should not be discontinued without consulting your prescriber.

1. Non-Medication Treatments

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A highly effective form of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to depression and anxiety.
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving relationships and communication skills to reduce symptoms of depression.
• Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT): Combines cognitive therapy with mindfulness practices to help patients cope with depressive and anxious thoughts.
• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): Used for severe depression, particularly when other treatments have failed. ECT involves electrically stimulating the brain under general anesthesia to trigger controlled seizures that may alleviate severe symptoms.
• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): A non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve mood, commonly used when other treatments are not effective.

2. Non-Antidepressant Medications

• Mood Stabilizers: Medications such as lithium, valproic acid, or lamotrigine are often used to stabilize mood in conditions like bipolar disorder.
• Atypical Antipsychotics: Medications like aripiprazole (Abilify) or quetiapine (Seroquel) can be used alongside antidepressants or alone in managing depression or bipolar disorder.
• Anxiolytics: Medications like buspirone or benzodiazepines may be prescribed for short-term relief of anxiety symptoms, although they carry risks such as dependence.

3. Lifestyle and Natural Approaches

• Exercise: Regular physical activity has been shown to naturally alleviate symptoms of depression by releasing endorphins and promoting better sleep and overall well-being.
• Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can improve mental health. Deficiencies in certain nutrients, such as B vitamins and magnesium, have been linked to mood disorders.
• Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help reduce stress and improve emotional regulation, providing a non-invasive way to manage symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• Sleep Hygiene: Establishing a regular sleep routine and improving the quality of sleep can greatly improve mood and reduce anxiety.
• Herbal Supplements: Some patients may choose natural remedies such as St. John’s Wort or SAM-e. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using these, as they may interact with other medications.

• Personal Use: I understand that my prescription is intended for my personal use only. I will not share, sell, or misuse my medication.
• Dosage and Frequency: I will take my medication exactly as prescribed and will not alter the dosage or frequency without consulting my prescriber.
• Provider Notification: I will notify my prescriber of any new medications, supplements, or changes in symptoms or side effects.
• Avoiding Substance Use: I will not combine my medication with alcohol or recreational drugs. I understand that doing so could increase the risk of dangerous side effects.
• Follow-Up Appointments: I understand that regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor my progress and adjust my treatment as needed.
• Safe Storage and Disposal: I will store my medication securely, out of reach of others, and return unused medication to a pharmacy for safe disposal.

• I have read and understand the information provided in this Antidepressant Informed Consent Form.
• I have been given the opportunity to ask questions, and all my questions have been answered to my satisfaction.
• I understand and accept the risks, conditions, and terms of the proposed treatment.
• I agree to follow the prescribed treatment plan and attend all scheduled appointments.
• I consent to the use of antidepressants as part of my treatment plan, and I understand that my treatment will be governed by the terms of this agreement.
• I acknowledge that my prescriber reserves the right to discontinue treatment or adjust the treatment plan if necessary.
• I understand that failure to comply with the terms of this agreement may result in the discontinuation of my antidepressant treatment or termination from the practice.
• I consent to the use of electronic records and signatures, and I acknowledge that I have read the related consumer disclosure.