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Affective Disorders, Bone Metabolism, and Osteoporosis
1Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 109 Observatory, 3644 SPH Tower, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
Clinical Reviews in Bone and Mineral Metabolism
|July 23, 2013
Summary
Depression is linked to lower bone mineral density (BMD), especially unipolar depression. The connection with bipolar depression is unclear, and more research is needed on medications and bone health.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Affective disorders may impact bone mineral density (BMD) and metabolism.
- Psychotropic medications and health behaviors associated with these disorders can influence bone health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence on the association between unipolar/bipolar depression and BMD.
- To explore potential mediating and confounding factors in these relationships.
- To examine the link between affective disorders and bone turnover markers.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of studies on depression, BMD, and bone metabolism.
- Analysis of evidence concerning unipolar and bipolar depression.
- Exploration of medication effects and health behaviors.
Main Results:
- Most studies link unipolar depression to lower BMD.
- Evidence for bipolar depression's association with BMD is inconsistent.
- Limited evidence suggests a link between affective disorders and bone turnover markers.
Conclusions:
- Unipolar depression is associated with reduced BMD.
- The relationship between bipolar depression and BMD requires further investigation.
- Future research should clarify the role of psychotropic medications and clinical indications in BMD and fracture risk.
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