A category of antidepressants known as SSRIs is often used to treat phobias. Commonly prescribed SSRIs include Prozac (fluoxetine), Luvox (fluvoxamine), Celexa (citalopram) and Paxil (paroxetine). These medications work by adjusting the level of serotonin in the brain, and are highly effective against some phobias.
The Background
Traditionally, SSRIs have been a preferred medication for elderly adults suffering from phobias. They have fewer side effects than MAOIs and are considered reasonably safe. However, some research shows that prolonged use of SSRIs may increase older Americans’ risk of fracture.
The Research
Researchers from McGill University in Quebec studied over 5,000 adults aged 50 and above for five years. They monitored participants’ use of SSRIs, bone mineral density and rate of falls, along with resulting fractures.
The results showed that people who reported daily use of SSRIs were 1.5 times more likely to fall than those who did not take the medications. Their bone mineral density was, on average, 4% lower in the hip and 2.4% lower in the lumbar spine.
After adjusting for those variables, researchers found that those who take SSRIs on a daily basis were twice as likely to develop fractures. Approximately 40% of those fractures were in the forearm, while the others were spread throughout the body.
Should Seniors Stop Taking SSRIs?
At this point, the research is extremely preliminary. Controlled clinical trials are necessary in order to determine whether these results can be considered valid.
In the meantime, concerned seniors may wish to talk to their doctors. Each case is different, and only a health care professional can determine the best course of action. Suddenly stopping any psychiatric medication without medical supervision can be extremely dangerous and should never be attempted.
Source:“Daily Use Of Antidepressants And Increased Risk Of Fracture In Older Adults Linked.” Medical News Today. January 26, 2007. March 13, 2008. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/61415.php
