Key features of depression and its management in general practice.
 
  "..I'd like to return to work.."

Which of the following statements are true of the ongoing management of
depression in the elderly?
1. Antidepressants should be discontinued after six months in the elderly.
2. Long-term antidepressant treatment should be at a reduced dose in the elderly.
3. The suicide rate among persons aged 80 to 84 years is increasing.
4. The suicide rate among the very elderly (those aged 85 years and older) is less than the rate of the general population.
5. Suicide in the elderly is associated with late-onset depression.

Back   Next

1. Antidepressants should be discontinued after six months in the elderly.

Author's answer: False.

Antidepressants should be continued at least two years (7). Some elderly patients, especially with late onset or recurrent depression, should take antidepressants or lithium indefinitely.