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A Retrospective Chart Review of Antidepressant Use, Effectiveness, and Adverse Effects in Adults Age 70 and Older

Northwestern University Medical School.

The authors assessed the use, side effects, and outcomes of various antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), in adults 70 years of age and older by means of a retrospective study of outpatient records. Of these patients (N = 70), 26% improved or recovered. Patients were more likely to improve or recover if they took the antidepressant for at least 3 months. Those on TCAs were as likely to improve or recover and no more likely to discontinue because of side effects than those prescribed SSRIs. Approximately one-third of patients discontinued because of side effects, and SSRI gastrointestinal side effects were more common in patients concomitantly taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Many older patients who undergo antidepressant therapy discontinue because of side effects; however patients are likely to improve or recover with sustained therapy.