Antidepressants are widely used, often without proper assessment or follow-up during treatment. Studies indicate that these medications have limited efficacy and benefit only certain patients, while side effects are common. Research shows that older adults treated with antidepressants have an increased risk of falls and hip fractures. Non-pharmacological approaches, such as light therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, have been shown to be equally or more effective in treating depression while causing fewer side effects. If a trial of antidepressant treatment is initiated for a diagnosed depression, close monitoring is essential to assess effectiveness, manage side effects, and adjust dosage and treatment duration accordingly.
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- de Filippis R, Mercurio M, Spina G, De Fazio P, Segura-Garcia C, Familiari F, Gasparini G, Galasso O. Antidepressants and Vertebral and Hip Risk Fracture: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Healthcare (Basel). 2022 Apr 26;10(5):803.