# Patients' Perspectives on Antidepressant Discontinuation and the Pharmacists' Role

## TL;DR

This study explores patients' views on antidepressant discontinuation and the potential role of pharmacists in providing guidance and support.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into patients' perspectives and needs regarding antidepressant discontinuation and the pharmacist's role in this process.

## Key findings

- Patients' false beliefs and negative experiences with antidepressants contribute to reluctance to discontinue them.
- Patients urgently need timely guidance and clear information from accessible healthcare providers.
- Pharmacists are seen as valuable due to their accessibility and pharmacotherapeutic expertise.

## Abstract

Antidepressant (AD) discontinuation care asks for tailored support and alignment with patients' expectations, needs and wishes. However, studies on patients' experiences and perspectives regarding the contribution of the pharmacist to AD discontinuation care are limited. The aim was to gain a deeper understanding of patients' perspectives regarding guidance during AD discontinuation and patients' views on the contribution of the pharmacist. A qualitative, explorative study was conducted with 15 semistructured face‐to‐face and video call interviews. Inclusion criteria were age ≥ 18 years and current or past use of ADs. The audiotapes were transcribed verbatim, coded and analysed by two researchers. The following four themes were identified: (1) experiences with ad use and discontinuation, (2) attitudes and behaviour towards AD discontinuation, (3) expectations and perceptions towards AD discontinuation and (4) needs regarding AD discontinuation. False beliefs about ADs and past negative experiences with AD discontinuation shape beliefs of patients that amount to a reluctance to discontinue ADs. The most urgent needs of patients were timely receiving guidance, including clear and relevant information from accessible, knowledgeable and trustable healthcare providers (HCPs). Pharmacists' easy accessibility, pharmacotherapeutic knowledge, expertise and capabilities should be put to use, as they may help meeting patients' needs on AD discontinuation.

The aim was to gain a deeper understanding of patients‘ perspectives regarding guidance during antidepressant discontinuation and the contribution of pharmacists. A qualitative study with 15 interviews with current or past antidepressant users revealed four themes related to antidepressant discontinuation: experiences with antidepressant use, attitudes and behaviour, expectations and perceptions, as well as needs. False beliefs about antidepressants and negative experiences with discontinuation shape patients‘ beliefs, amounting to reluctance towards antidepressant discontinuation. The most urgent needs of patients were timely receiving guidance, including clear and relevant information. Pharmacists, as easily accessible and knowledgeable healthcare providers, may help meeting patients‘ needs on antidepressant discontinuation.