The New York Times (5/4, Barry) reports that on Monday, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. “announced several initiatives intended to rein in the prescription of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, the most widely prescribed class of antidepressants, which he has described as exceptionally difficult to quit.” The Times adds, “The changes – new trainings, reimbursement mechanisms and clinical guidelines – nudge clinicians to help patients getting off medications, and to consider nonpharmaceutical interventions, like therapy, nutrition and exercise.” Dr. Marketa Wills, the chief executive and medical director of the American Psychiatric Association, said, “We may take issue with this blanket ‘overprescribing’ hypothesis that underpins the secretary’s statements.” Dr. Wills “added, though, that she welcomed Mr. Kennedy’s focus on mental health, and that she hoped to be involved in developing clinical guidelines around deprescribing.” Dr. Wills said, “We, as the A.P.A., want to be at the table for all these discussions and policy improvements.” According to Dr. Willis, “The bottom line is, we believe clinical care is safe and should be individualized for all patients, and we believe the secretary is taking steps that are beneficial for the field.”
The Wall Street Journal (5/4, Essley Whyte, McKay, Subscription Publication) also covers the story.
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— The New York Times (requires login and subscription)