Therapy of depression in dementia

Abstract

This is a comprehensive review of the existing diagnostic and treatment approaches to depression in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The existing evidence for the efficacy of pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments are reviewed with an emphasis on the paucity of existing data and the need for more definitive controlled studies. In addition, data on the efficacy of such novel experimental treatments, such as various brain stimulation techniques (e.g., vagal nerve stimulation) are discussed. Alternative and psychosocial treatments are also reviewed.

• antidepressants
• alternative
• brain stimulation
• dementia
• ECT
• elderly
• late-life depression
• psychosocial
• selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
• treatment