A 24-year-old woman presents with a 3-week history of low mood, anhedonia, early morning wakening and impaired concentration. She has no history of ma...

Question

A 24-year-old woman presents with a 3-week history of low mood, anhedonia, early morning wakening and impaired concentration. She has no history of mania or hypomania and no significant medical comorbidities. According to CANMAT 2023 depression guidelines, what is the MOST appropriate initial pharmacologic approach, assuming she chooses medication?

Accepted Answer

Start an SSRI or SNRI at standard dose with regular monitoring

Answer

Start a tricyclic antidepressant at full dose

Answer

Start combination therapy with two antidepressants

Answer

Start an antipsychotic alone

Answer

Defer medication for at least 6 months to see if symptoms resolve

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): Major depressive disorder - first-line pharmacotherapy