What is a common concern when using SSRIs in elderly patients?

The increased risk of drug interactions is a common concern when prescribing selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to elderly patients. This age group often presents with multiple health conditions requiring various medications, which raises the likelihood of polypharmacy—taking several medications simultaneously. As a result, SSRIs, which can interact with a range of other drugs, may lead to adverse effects or diminished therapeutic efficacy if not monitored closely.

Elderly patients might have altered pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics due to changes in metabolism and organ function, further complicating their response to SSRIs and heightening the risk of negative interactions with other medications they are taking for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease. Therefore, careful management and evaluation of all medications are crucial to ensure patient safety and effective treatment outcomes.