Trends in antidepressant utilization, expenditure, and demographic prescribing patterns in Jordan: a retrospective analysis

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BACKGROUND: The psychological aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing regional stressors have influenced mental health needs in Jordan. Understanding antidepressant utilization and expenditure trends is essential for improving treatment access and resource planning. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A retrospective market analysis was conducted using national IQVIA sales data (2019-2023), standardized by the World Health Organization's Defined Daily Dose methodology. Prescription-level data from Advanced Marketing Statistics (AMS) for 2021-2022 were analyzed to assess prescribing patterns by age, gender, and clinical indication. Descriptive and correlation analyses were performed. RESULTS: Antidepressant utilization in Jordan's private sector increased steadily between 2019 and 2023, dominated by selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which comprised 79% of total use. Escitalopram was most prescribed (40%), followed by sertraline (18.9%) and citalopram (3.3%). Prescriptions were more frequent among males (55.6%) and adults aged 30-54 years. Major depressive disorder accounted for 46.7% of indications. Fluoxetine use was higher among females, while tricyclic antidepressants were more common in males. CONCLUSIONS: SSRIs, particularly escitalopram, dominate antidepressant prescribing in Jordan's private sector. Patterns vary by age and gender, reflecting clinical diversity. Findings highlight the growing economic burden of antidepressants and the need for cost-containment and targeted mental health strategies.

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