augmentation strategy
Addition of a second medication to enhance the efficacy of an existing psychiatric treatment.
Full Definition
Augmentation strategy involves adding a second psychotropic medication to an existing treatment regimen to enhance therapeutic response rather than replacing the original medication. This approach is commonly used when partial response is achieved with monotherapy or when targeting residual symptoms. Augmentation differs from combination therapy in that it involves sequential addition rather than simultaneous initiation. Common augmentation strategies in psychiatry include adding atypical antipsychotics to antidepressants for treatment-resistant depression or adding mood stabilizers to antidepressants in bipolar disorder.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from combination therapy (simultaneous start) and switching strategies (discontinuation of original treatment).
In Context
- "The augmentation strategy involved adding low-dose aripiprazole to ongoing SSRI therapy for treatment-resistant depression." — Treatment protocol
- "Augmentation strategies were permitted after 6 weeks of inadequate response to monotherapy in the study design." — Clinical trial methodology