Is there a link between antidepressants and dementia?

Our findings indicate that antidepressant use is significantly associated with an increased risk of developing dementia. Therefore, we suggest physicians to carefully prescribe antidepressants, especially in elder patients. Additionally, treatment should be stopped if any symptoms related to dementia are to be noticed.

Do antidepressants help prevent dementia?

Continued long-term antidepressant treatment was associated with a reduction in the rate of dementia, however, not to the same level as the rate for the general population95,96. It has also been suggested that treatment with an SSRI may improve cognitive function and daily living in MCI and AD patients97.

What is the link between onset dementia and depression?

For a person with dementia, depression not only affects their mood, but may also worsen their symptoms of dementia. Depression is three to four times more common in people with dementia than in older people without dementia, but it can go unrecognised for a number of reasons.

Can antidepressants make dementia worse?

New evidence shows some anti-depressants can raise dementia risk. Certain antidepressants and bladder medications are linked to increased risk of dementia, according to new University of East Anglia research funded by Alzheimer’s Society and published today in the British Medical Journal.

Is Paxil linked to dementia?

Compared with no antidepressant use, paroxetine was associated with an increased risk of dementia with any exposure.

What is the safest antidepressant for the elderly?

SSRIs considered to have the best safety profile in the elderly are citalopram, escitalopram, and sertraline. [16] These have the lowest potential for drug-drug interactions based on their cytochrome P-450 interactions.

Should seniors take antidepressants?

Studies have found that while antidepressants can be helpful in older adults, they may not always be as effective as in younger patients. Also, the risk of side effects or potential reactions with other medicines must be carefully considered.