Pharmacotherapy in the treatment of patients with borderline personality disorder: results of a survey among psychiatrists in private practices

Pharmacotherapy still seems to play a major role in the treatment of patients suffering from borderline personality disorder (BPD). However, little is known about psychiatrists’ detailed perspective on indication and significance of medication. A total of 233 psychiatrists in the city of Munich and in Upper Bavaria were asked by questionnaire about their treatment habits in the medical treatment of patients with BPD. One hundred and forty-one psychiatrists answered the questionnaire (60.5%). In total, 94% of BPD patients were treated with psychotropic medication. Psychiatrists predominantly saw an indication to prescribe antidepressants (98%), followed by antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and benzodiazepines. Citalopram/escitalopram and quetiapine were mentioned most frequently. The results are discussed in conjunction with the international guidelines for the treatment of BPD.