Use of methylphenidate in the treatment of major depressive disorder in an outpatient mental health center

Background According to the American Psychiatric Association practice guidelines, if a patient with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) has not responded or achieved only a partial response after 4-8 weeks of therapy, a dose change, switch to a new drug, or augmentation therapy is recommended [1]. Combined use of standard antidepressants with dopaminergic agents and psychostimulants can lead to accelerate and enhance response if administered early...