I do believe that they do.
I just saw a new ad for a migraine med. It is Imitrex with Naproxen (Aleve) in it. They are going to charge an arm and a leg for it, insurances won't pay, people in pain won't get the relief they need because their Dr. doesn't think...why won't we just perscribe Imitrex and tell the patient to take X amount of Aleve that they buy OTC. /end rant.
I always tell people to talk to their pharmacist about the medications they are perscribed. Pharmacists often know of cheaper/better alternatives that save a patient all kinds of money.
I don't think it is just about narcotics but about all medications.
I know why benzos are perscribed with an antidepressant and why extra pain meds are perscribed. I have a friend with a very painful chronic condition and she is on a lot of pain meds and breakthrough meds. This condition is slowly killing her and her quality of life is very important. That is why they have those meds, for people like her.
Anti-depressants can take up to a month to work and often benzos are perscribed until the antidepressants kick in.