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Abstract
Late-life depression is a serious illness accompanied by medical morbidity, cognitive decline and risk of suicide. Antidepressant medications are a cornerstone of treatment for depressed elders. Although they are optimally provided in conjunction with psychotherapy, in many cases they are used alone. Recently, concern has developed over modern antidepressant medication, including concerns about their ultimate efficacy and particular risks that may be seen in older adult populations. Ultimately, antidepressant medications are effective for many individuals and continue to play an important role in treating depressed elders, although the potential risks must be weighed with the patient and their families. Current data do not support restriction of their use and untreated depression has serious negative health consequences. Patients need treatments with better efficacy and safety, including new pharmacological options and better access to and dissemination of nonpharmacological treatment.
Financial & competing interests disclosure
This project was supported by National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) grants R21 MH099218 and R01 MH102246. The author has no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.