Antidepressant drug studies in the elderly

This article reviews the literature on antidepressant drug trials conducted in elderly populations. Only 27 studies of cyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and psychostimulants deal specifically with subjects that were over age 60. Methodologic problems were found in many studies, including lack of diagnostic criteria and inadequate controlling for cognitive impairment, concurrent medical illnesses, and nonpsychotropic medications. Most studies compared second-generation antidepressants against placebo or tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). Antidepressant drugs are effective treatments for geriatric depression, and limiting side effects are comparable with those seen in younger populations.