Depression treatment options for older adults and the elderly
Antidepressant treatment for older adults and the elderly
Older adults are more sensitive to drug side effects and vulnerable to interactions with other medicines they’re taking.
Recent studies have also found that SSRIs such as Prozac can cause rapid bone loss and a higher risk for fractures and falls. Because of these safety concerns, elderly adults on antidepressants should be carefully monitored.
In many cases, therapy and/or healthy lifestyle changes, such as exercise, can be as effective as antidepressants in relieving depression, but without the dangerous side effects.