The integration of psychopharmacotherapy and psychoanalytical psychotherapy: A critical review

Abstract

Objective: Integration between psychotherapy and psychopharmacotherapy has been a conflicting subject in the history of psychiatry. To date, dichotomy between "biological" and "psychological" models is noticed, although recent studies have been showing the importance of the association of these modalities in the current psychiatric practice. This study attempts to review psychodynamic, technical and other issues involving the integration of pharmacological and psychotherapeutical treatments. Methods: Literature search was based on MEDLINE, PsychoINFO and Lilacs, referring to the period from 1966 to September 2002. Results: The studies reviewed demonstrated that the application of combined treatment might be positive. Conclusions: The efficacy of the combined treatment depends on the capacity of the integration of the different forms of treatment. More research is necessary in this area.