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[Fluoxetine and depression in the elderly. Clinical experience]
L A Ambrosio1, E Barrese, M Bertini
1Servizio di Psichaitria, Ospedale Civile dell'Annuziata, Cosenza.
Minerva Psichiatrica
|July 1, 1992
Summary
This study found that fluoxetine effectively treats major depression in elderly patients aged 60-80. The medication demonstrated significant symptom improvement with excellent tolerability and mild side effects over a 90-day follow-up.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Psychology
Context:
- Major depression is a prevalent mental health condition in the elderly population.
- The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Third Edition-Revised (DSM III-R) provides diagnostic criteria for major depression.
- Elderly individuals may experience unique challenges in managing depressive symptoms and treatment side effects.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of fluoxetine in treating major depression in elderly patients.
- To assess the psychopathological changes and depressive symptomatology over a 90-day treatment period.
- To determine the safety profile of fluoxetine in this specific age group.
Summary:
- Eighty-six patients aged 60-80 with major depression (DSM III-R criteria) received 20 mg/day of fluoxetine orally.
- Psychometric assessments at 14 days, subsequent intervals, and a 90-day follow-up showed significant improvement in depressive symptoms.
- Fluoxetine was well-tolerated, with mild side effects that tended to decrease over time.
Impact:
- Fluoxetine demonstrates a beneficial effect on major depression in elderly patients.
- The findings support fluoxetine as a viable treatment option for geriatric depression.
- This research contributes to understanding the long-term efficacy and safety of antidepressants in older adults.
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