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A new drug may provide the solution for individuals with depression insurance difficulties caused by the re-emergence of symptoms following treatment.

Prozac manufacturer Eli Lilly has received approval from the US Food and Drug Adminstration (FDA) for Cymbalta to treat major depressive disorder in adults.

"Relapse, the re-emergence of depressive symptoms after a successful treatment of depression, is a significant clinical concern," observed Dr Doug Williamson, Cymbalta associate medical director for Eli Lilly.

"This approval from the FDA is important because data from our Cymbalta clinical trial demonstrate that continuing to treat the patient delays the time to possible relapse," he continued.

During the Cymbalta trial, more than 500 patients with major depression who were given a fixed dose of the drug every day took longer to relapse than patients given a placebo.

According to psychiatric professionals, the maintenance of antidepressant treatment helps decrease the chance of an individual relapsing, while treating the broad range of depression symptoms may minimise the presence of residual symptoms such as anxiety and low self-esteem.

The Insurance Helpline specialises in obtaining cover for people with depression

This entry was posted on Monday, December 3rd, 2007 at 3:05 pm and is filed under Depression / Anxiety, Medical Developments and treatments.