Continuing olanzapine with sertraline reduces relapse in psychotic depression

Abstract

Continuation of olanzapine treatment for 36 weeks after response to combined treatment with olanzapine and sertraline in patients with psychotic depression reduced the risk of relapse to this severely disabling condition, a placebo‐controlled trial has found. The continued use of olanzapine was associated with weight gain, however, which researchers said highlights the need to balance the potential benefits of the atypical antipsychotic against the risk of adverse effects. Study results were published in the Aug. 20 issue of JAMA.