Book Review: Psychopharmacology: The Prescriber's Guide: Stahl's Essential Psychopharmacology. Fourth Edition

Abstract

Reviews the book, The Prescriber's Guide: Stahl's Essential Psychopharmacology. Fourth Edition by Stephen M. Stahl (2011). This is the fourth edition of this most valuable, practical, and widely used formulary in psychopharmacology, written by a well-known expert and prolific author in psychopharmacology: professor Stephen Stahl. This book provides relevant and clinically informed, evidence-based information guidance to support clinicians in the rational prescribing of psychopharmacological medications. The fourth edition has included coverage of 13 brand new medications, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, hypnotics, nonstimulants for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and medical foods, and has updated information on the newest indication, new formulations, new recommendations, and new safety data. The book includes information about 120 medications that cover the broad spectrum of available armamentarium of psychopharmacological agents. Each medication is broken down into 5 sections, designated by a unique color background, and includes: therapeutics, side effects, dosing and use, special populations, and the art of psychopharmacology. This book gives useful information about treating the elderly, children, adolescents, and pregnant and breastfeeding women. Equally important is the author's opinions on issues such as the potential advances and disadvantages of any one medication, the primary target symptoms, and how to get the best out of the medication. Overall, the book is well written, concise, and appropriately formatted. Such particular formatting facilitates rapid access to information and makes it easier for future updates. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2013 APA, all rights reserved)