PsychologyJuly 8, 2026

pharmacotherapy

/ˌfɑːrməkoʊˈθɛrəpi/

Definition

The treatment of mental health conditions through the use of pharmaceutical medications.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'pharmakon' (drug or poison) and 'therapeia' (healing or service). It entered modern English in the 20th century to specifically describe the medicinal branch of therapeutic practice.

In the news

The article mentions pharmacotherapy as a standard, evidence-based treatment for depression and anxiety, highlighting that it is one of several first-line interventions often recommended by clinical guidelines.

Transforming psychological practice with precision mental health: introduction to the NOVA project

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