Diagnosis and management of major depression, a condition that is frequently encountered by primary care physicians, must take into account such factors as the patient's age, comorbid conditions and specific presenting symptoms. Rational selection of antidepressant medication must also include analysis of potential side effects and drug-drug or drug-food interactions. Psychiatric consultation may benefit a select group of patients. Although some patients may require life-long antidepressant medication, most will be able to discontinue their medication after a period of time. Newer antidepressants are expanding the treatment options available to family physicians.