Antidepressants and Bone Mineral Density

These results have overt clinical implications. They suggest a noxious effect, particularly of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants, on bone. Osteoporosis and fracture is overtly the problem of the elderly. However, the process of skeletal consolidation begins in childhood and the corresponding phase of demineralisation proceeds at a glacial pace and lasts throughout adulthood, as a consequence antidepressant therapy is likely to have a substantive impact on a phenomenon likely to manifest decades hence. It is known that numerically small changes in bone mineral density are associated with a substantial increase in fracture risk. Because the SSRIs have only been in widespread use for two decades, it is plausible that the consequences of this adverse effect are yet to emerge. These data consequently suggest a recalibration of the risk/benefit ratio of this class of agents and additionally beg the question of the potential role of screening for bone mineral density in this at-risk population group.

Inclusion criteria

• Participants needed to have a primary diagnosis of depression with Zung Self Rated Depression Scale (SDS) > 53, and Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) ≥20.

Exclusion criteria

• The patients with hyperparathyroidism, myeloma or other disorders known to affect bone metabolism
• Use of estrogen
• Calcitonin drugs
• Previous antidepressant or other psychiatric drug use or prior treatment history