From the Research
Doctors of Podiatric Medicine (DPMs) generally cannot prescribe antidepressants, but if they could, duloxetine would be a potential option due to its efficacy in treating chronic pain conditions, as shown in a recent network meta-analysis 1.
Background
DPMs are specialized healthcare providers who focus on diagnosing and treating conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Their prescribing authority is typically limited to medications directly related to podiatric conditions, such as antibiotics for foot infections, pain medications for foot pain, and anti-inflammatory drugs for foot-related inflammation.
Antidepressant Options
Antidepressants, such as duloxetine, venlafaxine, and milnacipran, have been shown to be effective in treating chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia, neuropathic pain, and musculoskeletal pain 2, 1, 3. However, the prescribing of these medications is typically outside the scope of podiatric practice.
Key Findings
A recent network meta-analysis found that duloxetine was consistently the highest-ranked antidepressant for treating chronic pain, with moderate- to high-certainty evidence 1. The study also found that milnacipran was often ranked as the next most efficacious antidepressant, although the certainty of evidence was lower than that of duloxetine.
Prescribing Limitations
The prescribing limitations for DPMs are based on their specialized training, which focuses on foot and ankle pathology rather than psychiatric or general medical conditions. If a podiatrist identifies that a patient may benefit from antidepressant medication, they would refer the patient to an appropriate healthcare provider such as a primary care physician, psychiatrist, or other mental health professional who has the training and legal authority to prescribe these medications.
Conclusion is not allowed, so here are some key points to consider:
- DPMs typically cannot prescribe antidepressants
- Duloxetine is a potential option for treating chronic pain conditions
- The prescribing of antidepressants is typically outside the scope of podiatric practice
- DPMs should refer patients to an appropriate healthcare provider if they require antidepressant medication.