About Careers Internship MedBlog Contact us
Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Advertisement

Antidepressant Carries Same Risk of Falls & Fractures as Antipsychotics

by Ramya Rachamanti on November 26, 2018 at 4:05 PM
Antidepressant Carries Same Risk of Falls & Fractures as Antipsychotics

Atypical antipsychotics were used previously for treating seniors with dementia. Later, an antidepressant named trazodone was identified as a safer alternative. But, now trazodone was found to have the same incidence of falls and fractures like atypical antipsychotics, according to new research published in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal).

"As clinicians move to decrease antipsychotic use, we should not consider trazodone as a uniformly safer alternative to atypical antipsychotics, because trazodone use was associated with a comparable risk of falls and major osteoporotic fractures to atypical antipsychotics--drugs associated with these adverse outcomes in our patient population," writes Dr. Jennifer Watt, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, with coauthors.

Advertisement


The rate of dementia in Canada is 7%, but it approaches almost 25% in people older than age 85. In long-term care facilities, 62% of residents have dementia, and many exhibit aggressive behaviour. Although evidence is limited on efficacy, antipsychotics and trazodone, an antidepressant also used for sleep issues, are commonly prescribed for patients with dementia.

Using linked data from ICES, researchers looked at data on 6588 seniors newly dispensed trazodone and 2875 newly dispensed an atypical antipsychotic. They found that patients dispensed trazodone had a rate of falls and major fractures, including hip fractures, similar to that of the group receiving atypical antipsychotics. However, trazodone was associated with a lower risk of death in these patients.
Advertisement

"We hope this information can be used to inform conversations that patients and caregivers are having with clinicians about the benefits and risks of different treatment options," says Dr. Watt.

"Watt and colleagues also underscore the importance of prioritizing nonpharmacological approaches for the management of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia," writes Dr. Elia Abi-Jaoude, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, with coauthors in a related commentary http://www.cmaj.ca/lookup/doi/10.1503/cmaj.181486.

"Nonpharmacological approaches comprise a variety of behavioural, environmental and caregiver-supportive interventions, and existing evidence suggests that these show a greater effect than many psychotropic drug therapies."

"Comparative risk of harm associated with trazodone or atypical antipsychotic use in older adults with dementia: a retrospective cohort study" is published.



Source: Eurekalert
Font : A-A+

Advertisement

Advertisement
Advertisement

Recommended Readings

Latest Drug News

Projected Growth: Psychedelic Drug Market Anticipated to Hit $7.2 Billion by 2029
The psychedelic market set for remarkable growth, projected to hit $7.2B by 2029 with a strong 55% CAGR.
Promising ALS Drug Candidate Extends Lifespan
The study explores whether CDNF could influence the progression of ALS in rodent models and to elucidate the mechanism through which it operates.
Amoxicillin-Calvulanate Vs Amoxicillin Preference in Child Sinusitis Treatment
Amoxicillin-clavulanate use in acute sinusitis patients is associated with a higher incidence of adverse events.
ADHD Medication Errors Surge by Nearly 300%
Professionals advocate for enhanced education of patients and caregivers, and creation of more effective child-resistant systems for monitoring ADHD medication.
Unknown Medication Side Effects Reported by 52% of Indian Families
In June, WHO raised concerns about 7 Indian cough syrups after complaints from several countries about contamination and health issues.
View All
This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and our Terms of Use  Ok, Got it. Close
MediBotMediBot
Greetings! How can I assist you?MediBot
×

Antidepressant Carries Same Risk of Falls & Fractures as Antipsychotics Personalised Printable Document (PDF)

Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested

You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends.

Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice.

Name *

Email Address *

Country *

Areas of Interests