Clinical psychiatry and cardiovascular disease in the aged

The geriatric patient has a high incidence of cardiovascular and psychiatric illness; treatment of either may lead to emergence or aggravation of the other. Toxic side effects can frequently be managed by a reduction in dose or a change in medication. In general, the psychiatric problems of elderly patients, including patients with cardiovascular disease, can be managed despite the cardiovascular toxicity of most psychotropic drugs. Psychiatrists who treat geriatric patients need an understanding of psychopharmacology and clinical manifestations of the cardiovascular system in order to provide well-rounded care.