• Should antidepressant medication be used in the elderly?

My grandfather has depression. Should antidepressant medication be used in the elderly?

4 Answers

  • Phychiatrist
  • Grapevine, Texas

Yes, but with careful monitoring due to possible side effects. If you have any further questions or need more clarity, please consult with a psychiatrist. If you`re in Texas, we welcome you to reach out to www.MidCitiesPsychiatry.com, we`re here to help you.

  • Psychiatrist
  • Fairfax, VA

Yes, it can be used in the elderly but with many precautions and under the care of a geriatric psychiatrist if possible. The so-called tricyclic antidepressants (Imipramine, desipramine, nortriptyline, etc.) *should not be used *in the elderly.

  • Psychiatrist
  • Macclenny, FL

On small dose trial.

  • Psychiatrist
  • Albuquerque, NM

This is a complex question. In general yes, however one must get a complete history and sometimes a physical exam. Certainly one must take an elderly patient's other current medications and supplements into consideration. Dr. Summers

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