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Published on: April 18, 2011

Effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality

Abby E Von Ruden1, David E Adson, Michael Kotlyar

  • 1College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.

Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology and Therapeutics
|February 22, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) use in patients with coronary artery disease has mixed results on cardiovascular outcomes. More research is needed to determine if SSRIs improve heart health.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Psychiatry
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Depression is linked to worse outcomes in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients.
  • The impact of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) on cardiovascular events in CAD is uncertain.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review existing literature on the association between SSRI use and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with CAD.
  • To evaluate the current evidence on whether SSRIs affect cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in CAD.

Main Methods:

  • A literature search was conducted to identify studies investigating SSRI use and cardiovascular outcomes.
  • Thirteen relevant studies were included in this review.

Main Results:

  • Five studies suggested SSRI use is linked to reduced cardiovascular morbidity or mortality.
  • Two studies indicated SSRI use worsened prognosis.
  • Six studies found no statistically significant association between SSRI use and cardiovascular outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Current evidence on SSRI use and cardiovascular outcomes in CAD patients is inconclusive.
  • The majority of studies are observational, limiting definitive conclusions.
  • Randomized controlled trials are essential to clarify the role of SSRIs in managing cardiovascular health in depressed CAD patients.

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