Factors affecting the use and selection of antidepressants in the elderly

Depression is a common problem for the elderly. It is critical that clinicians become aware of this fact and that appropriate therapy is prescribed. Both pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy play roles in the treatment of depression in these patients. The appropriate use of medications requires an understanding of factors specific to the elderly that affect their selection and use of these medications. In particular, concurrent medical conditions, potential drug-drug interactions and pharmacokinetic changes need to be considered. The intent of this paper is to describe these factors and suggest some guidelines for the appropriate use of antidepressants in the elderly.