Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors and the risk of bleeding

Cognitive behavioural therapy and third-wave approaches for anxiety and related disorders in older people

BACKGROUND

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is the most researched psychological therapy for anxiety disorders in adults, and known to be effective in this population. However, it remains unclear whether these results apply to older adults, as most studies include participants between 18 and 55 years of age. This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date synthesis of the available evidence on CBT and third wave approaches for older adults with anxiety and related disorders.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CT, BT, CBT and third-wave CBT interventions) on severity of anxiety symptoms compared with minimal management (not providing therapy) for anxiety and related disorders in older adults, aged 55 years or over. To assess the effects of CBT and related therapies on severity of anxiety symptoms compared with other psychological therapies for anxiety and related disorders in older adults, aged 55 years or over.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Common Mental Disorders Controlled studies Register (CCMDCTR), CENTRAL, Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase and Ovid PsycINFO to 21 July 2022. These searches were updated on 2 February 2024. We also searched the international studies registries, including Clinicalstudies.gov and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), to identify additional ongoing and unpublished studies. These sources were manually searched for studies up to 12 February 2024.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in older adults (≥ 55 years) with an anxiety disorder, or a related disorder, including obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), acute stress disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), that compared CBT to either minimal management or an active (non-CBT) psychological therapy. Eligible studies had to have an anxiety-related outcome.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Several authors independently screened all titles identified by the searches. All full texts were screened for eligibility according to our prespecified selection criteria. Data were extracted and the risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool for RCTs. The certainty of evidence was evaluated using GRADE. Meta-analyses were performed for outcomes with quantitative data from more than one study.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 21 RCTs on 1234 older people allocated to either CBT or control conditions. Ten studies focused on generalised anxiety disorder; others mostly included a mix of clinical diagnoses. Nineteen studies focused on the comparison between CBT and minimal management. Key issues relating to risk of bias were lack of blinding of participants and personnel, and participants dropping out of studies, potentially due to treatment preference and allocation. CBT may result in a small-to-moderate reduction of anxiety post-treatment (SMD -0.51, 95% CI -0.66 to -0.36, low-certainty evidence). However, compared to this benefit with CBT immediately after treatment, at three to six months post-treatment, there was little to no difference between CBT and minimal management (SMD -0.29, 95% CI -0.59 to 0.01, low-certainty evidence). CBT may have little or no effect on clinical recovery/ improvement post-treatment compared to minimal management, but the evidence is very uncertain (RR 1.56, 95% CI 1.20 to 2.03, very low-certainty evidence). Results indicate that five people would need to receive treatment for one additional person to benefit (NNTB = 5). Compared to minimal management, CBT may result in a reduction of comorbid depression symptoms post-treatment (SMD -0.57, 95% CI -0.74 to -0.40, low-certainty evidence). There was no difference in dropout rates post-treatment, although the certainty of the evidence was low (RR 1.19, 95% CI 0.80 to 1.78). Two studies reported adverse events, both of which related to medication in the control groups (very low-certainty evidence, no quantitative estimate). Only two studies compared CBT to other psychological therapies, both of which only included participants with post-traumatic stress disorder. Low-certainty evidence showed no difference in anxiety severity post-treatment and at four to six months post-treatment, symptoms of depression post-treatment, and dropout rates post-treatment. Other outcomes and time points are reported in the results section of the manuscript.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

CBT may be more effective than minimal management in reducing anxiety and symptoms of worry and depression post-treatment in older adults with anxiety disorders. The evidence is less certain longer-term and for other outcomes including clinical recovery/improvement. There is not enough evidence to determine whether CBT is more effective than alternative psychological therapies for anxiety in older adults.

A Study of Proton Pump Inhibitors and Other Risk Factors in Warfarin-Associated Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Background

Warfarin users are at increased risk for gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB). History of GIB, stroke, cardiovascular or chronic kidney disease, age greater than 65 years, and drug interaction with proton pump inhibitors (PPI) have previously been identified as risk factors for GIB in warfarin users. We hypothesized that concomitant use of warfarin and PPI would increase the incidence of GIB relative to warfarin use alone.

Methods

We did a retrospective review of medical records of 626 patients taking warfarin for at least two weeks. Parameters including age, concomitant medication use (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), aspirin, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), PPI, and anti-platelet drug), history of GIB, chronic renal failure (CRF), and peptic ulcer disease (PUD) prior to warfarin use were analyzed.

Results

Variables that increase the likelihood of bleeding in warfarin users included aspirin, PPI, history of PUD, history of previous GIB, CRF, and elevated prothrombin time (PT)/international normalized ratio (INR) values. Concomitant antiplatelet use showed a slight increase in GIB but this was not statistically significant (p=0.082). NSAID use and SSRI use were not associated with a higher risk of GIB among warfarin users. Patients who are on PPI and warfarin simultaneously are more likely to be on acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) or have a history of PUD, GIB, or CRF, all of which are associated with increased incidences of GIB.

Conclusions

Although concomitant use of warfarin and PPI appears to be associated with an increased incidence of GIB, these patients are more likely to have other risk factors that also increase the risk of a GIB outcome. Therefore, the interaction between PPI and warfarin is clinically insignificant.

A review of drugs that contribute to bleeding risk in general dental practice

The risk of postoperative bleeding is a daily concern for many general dental practitioners. A thorough medical and medication history must be taken to consider all risk factors, particularly drugs, that contribute to bleeding risk. While the risk from drugs such as aspirin, warfarin and clopidogrel are well known, the extent to which new antiplatelet agents and direct oral anticoagulants affect bleeding risk is less well understood. In addition, there are drugs other than antithrombotics, such as antidepressants and complementary medicines that also impair haemostasis. The aim of this paper is to provide dentists with an updated overview of the drugs commonly encountered in general dental practice that can contribute to a patient's postoperative bleeding risk.

Intracerebral Hemorrhage and Outcome After Thrombolysis in Stroke Patients Using Selective Serotonin-Reuptake Inhibitors

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) impair platelet function and have been linked to a higher risk of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage-an association that may be augmented by oral anticoagulants (OAC). We aimed to assess whether preadmission treatment with SSRIs in patients with acute ischemic stroke is associated with post-thrombolysis symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) and functional outcome.

METHODS

A multicenter retrospective analysis was conducted in prospective registries of patients treated by thrombolysis within 4.5 hours of stroke onset. The association between preadmission treatment with SSRIs and sICH (ECASS II definition [European Cooperative Acute Stroke Study]) or unfavorable 3-month outcome (modified Rankin Scale >2) was assessed by logistic regression, taking into account potential interaction with concomitant use of antithrombotics.

RESULTS

Six thousand two hundred forty-two patients were included (mean age, 70.1±14.0 years; median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, 9 [5-16]). Preadmission treatment with SSRIs was present in 4.3% (n=266) of patients. Overall, SICH rate was 3.9% (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.5%-4.4%; n=244), and SSRI use was not significantly associated with sICH in unadjusted (odds ratio [OR], 1.28; 95% CI, 0.72-2.27) or adjusted (OR, 1.30; 95% CI, 0.71-2.40) analysis. However, there was a significant interaction of concomitant use of OACs (international normalized ratio <1.7) and SSRI for occurrence of sICH (P=0.01). SICH was significantly more frequent in patients taking both OAC and SSRI (23.1%; 95% CI, 8.2%-50.3%) than in patients taking OAC but not SSRI (adjusted OR, 9.04; 95% CI, 1.95-41.89). Preadmission use of SSRI was associated with unfavorable 3-month outcome (unadjusted OR, 1.90; 95% CI, 1.48-2.46; adjusted OR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.15-2.19).

CONCLUSIONS

Preadmission treatment with SSRIs was not significantly associated with an increased risk of post-thrombolysis sICH in this cohort study. However, subgroup analysis suggested an increased risk of sICH in patients taking both SSRI and OAC. Preadmission treatment with SSRIs was associated with unfavorable outcome, which may reflect the prognostic significance of prestroke depression.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and dental implant failure-A significant concern in elders?

OBJECTIVE

Depression is a significantly prevalent health concern in geriatric populations. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor drugs (SSRI) are the most commonly prescribed antidepressant agents, with increasing rates of prescription. The present report aimed to present a concise review of the current understanding regarding SSRI effects on bone and dental implant outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A broad-based review and summary of literature pertaining to the effects of SSRI on bone metabolism and on dental implant survival was performed.

RESULTS

The available literature indicates that serotonin plays a significant role in bone metabolism and experimental reports demonstrate adverse impacts of SSRI on multiple pathways of bone metabolism. Early clinical reports suggest detrimental effects of SSRI on dental implant survival. The type of SSRI drug, dosage and host-related genetic and metabolic factors could be potential modulating factors. There is a paucity of data regarding SSRI usage and dental implant survival specific to geriatric cohorts.

CONCLUSION

As older individuals comprise a high-risk group for both high oral rehabilitation and SSRI use, clinicians should be aware the potential association between SSRI and dental implant failures. Well-designed investigations specific to geriatric cohorts are essential to understand the implications of SSRI use on dental implant prognosis.

Antidepressant Drugs for Postsurgical Pain: Current Status and Future Directions

Current treatments for postsurgical pain are often inadequate and adverse effects are substantial such that residual pain and/or side effects impair recovery. The recognition of analgesic efficacy with antidepressant drugs for chronic pain suggests the potential for efficacy in acute postsurgical pain. As reviewed here, current evidence suggests that approximately half of previous trials suggest efficacy of various antidepressants for acute postoperative pain. However, most trials are older with deficiencies including: lack of designation of a primary outcome, no assessment of movement-evoked pain, small size and limited safety assessment. Only one of three trials addressing prevention of chronic postsurgical pain suggested any efficacy; however, the evidence base for this indication is limited. Thus, current evidence does not yet support routine use of any one specific antidepressant for treatment of acute, or prevention of chronic, postsurgical pain. However, limitations in available trials are such that one cannot yet rule out the possibility that one or more antidepressant drugs may provide benefit in specific populations. Therefore, future larger trials should explore optimal dosing and duration of antidepressant treatment, procedure specificity, safety evaluation, and assessment of movement-evoked pain.

Preadmission use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and short-term mortality in diabetic patients hospitalized due to stroke

BACKGROUND

Patients with diabetes have an increased risk of stroke with a poor prognosis. Moreover, diabetic patients are at increased risk of depression and therefore likely to use selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). We examined whether preadmission SSRI use was associated with increased mortality in diabetic patients hospitalized due to stroke.

METHODS

Population-based medical databases were used to identify all first-time stroke-related hospitalizations and subsequent mortality in diabetic patients in Denmark between 2004 and 2012 (n = 12 620). Based on redeemed prescriptions, SSRI use was categorized as current (new or long term), former or nonuse, and absolute 30-day mortality and mortality rate ratios (MRRs) were computed using Cox regression controlling for confounding factors.

RESULTS

Amongst SSRI nonusers, 30-day stroke mortality was 15.8% (10.4% for ischaemic stroke, 41.8% for intracerebral haemorrhage and 27.3% for subarachnoid haemorrhage). Amongst current SSRI users, 30-day stroke mortality was 23.3% (17.1% for ischaemic stroke, 50.7% for intracerebral haemorrhage and 28.6% for subarachnoid haemorrhage). Current SSRI use was associated with increased 30-day stroke mortality compared with nonuse [adjusted MRR 1.3, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1-1.5], with the highest risk observed amongst new users (MRR 1.5, 95% CI 1.2-1.8). Overall stroke mortality was driven by increased mortality due to ischaemic stroke, with adjusted MRRs of 1.3 (95% CI 1.1-1.7) for current users and 1.7 (95% CI 1.2-2.4) for new users. Propensity score-matched results were similar and robust across subgroups.

CONCLUSION

In patients with diabetes, preadmission SSRI use was associated with increased mortality following ischaemic stroke, compared with nonuse.

Postoperative persistent chronic pain: what do we know about prevention, risk factors, and treatment

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Postoperative persistent chronic pain (POCP) is a serious health problem, disabling, undermining the quality of life of affected patients. Although more studies and research have addressed the possible mechanisms of the evolution from acute pain to chronic postoperatively, there are still no consistent data about the risk factors and prevention. This article aims to bring what is in the panorama of the current literature available.

CONTENT

This review describes the definition, risk factors, and mechanisms of POCD, its prevention and treatment. The main drugs and techniques are exposed comprehensively.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative persistent chronic pain is a complex and still unclear etiology entity, which interferes heavily in the life of the subject. Neuropathic pain resulting from surgical trauma is still the most common expression of this entity. Techniques to prevent nerve injury are recommended and should be used whenever possible. Despite efforts to understand and select risk patients, the management and prevention of this syndrome remain challenging and inappropriate.

Use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are used to treat various psychiatric disorders. However, there are concerns that SSRIs increase the risk for upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB).

METHODS

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled observational studies to determine whether SSRI use affects the risk for UGIB. Our analysis included all observational studies that compared UGIB development among patients receiving SSRIs vs no treatment. We calculated pooled odds ratios using random- and fixed-effects models.

RESULTS

A total of 22 studies (6 cohort and 16 case-control studies) involving more than 1,073,000 individuals were included in our meta-analysis. In comparing SSRI users with patients who had not taken SSRIs, the odds for developing UGIB were 1.55-fold higher (odds ratio, 1.55; 95% confidence interval, 1.35-1.78). In subgroup analyses, the association was greatest for patients who received concurrent therapy with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory or antiplatelet drugs; we found no significant increase in the risk of developing UGIB among patients receiving concurrent acid-suppressing drugs.

CONCLUSIONS

SSRI use was associated with an almost 2-fold increase in the risk of developing UGIB, especially among patients at high risk for GI bleeding (concurrent use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory or antiplatelet drugs). This risk might be reduced significantly by concomitant use of acid-suppressing drugs.

Antidepressant drugs for prevention of acute and chronic postsurgical pain: early evidence and recommended future directions

BACKGROUND

This review evaluates trials of antidepressants for acute and chronic postsurgical pain.

METHODS

Trials were systematically identified using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Extracted data included the following: pain at rest and with movement, adverse effects, and other outcomes.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies (985 participants) of early postoperative pain evaluated amitriptyline (three trials), bicifadine (two trials), desipramine (three trials), duloxetine (one trial), fluoxetine (one trial), fluradoline (one trial), tryptophan (four trials), and venlafaxine (one trial). Three studies (565 participants) of chronic postoperative pain prevention evaluated duloxetine (one trial), escitalopram (one trial), and venlafaxine (one trial). Heterogeneity because of differences in drug, dosing regimen, outcomes, and/or surgical procedure precluded any meta-analyses. Superiority to placebo was reported in 8 of 15 trials for early pain reduction and 1 of 3 trials for chronic pain reduction. The majority of positive trials did not report sufficient data to estimate treatment effect sizes. Many studies had inadequate size, safety evaluation/reporting, procedure specificity, and movement-evoked pain assessment.

CONCLUSIONS

There is currently insufficient evidence to support the clinical use of antidepressants-beyond controlled investigations-for treatment of acute, or prevention of chronic, postoperative pain. Multiple positive trials suggest the therapeutic potential of antidepressants, which need to be replicated. Other nontrial evidence suggests potential safety concerns of perioperative antidepressant use. Future studies are needed to better define the risk-benefit ratio of antidepressants in postoperative pain management. Higher-quality trials should optimize dosing, timing and duration of antidepressant treatment, trial size, patient selection, safety evaluation and reporting, procedure specificity, and assessment of movement-evoked pain relevant to postoperative functional recovery.

Pharmacotherapy for premature ejaculation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

As there are various drugs and different treatment strategies to delay ejaculation, a review of the current drug treatments for premature ejaculation is relevant for daily clinical practice.

RECENT FINDINGS

There are four premature ejaculation subtypes: lifelong premature ejaculation, acquired premature ejaculation, variable premature ejaculation and subjective premature ejaculation. These premature ejaculation subtypes vary in the duration of the intravaginal ejaculation latency time, their course in life and frequency of early ejaculations. Drug treatment is mainly required for lifelong and acquired premature ejaculation. On the other hand, counseling, psychoeducation and local anesthetics are particularly indicated for variable premature ejaculation and subjective premature ejaculation. Apart from the efficacy of various drugs, drugs against premature ejaculation can be taken on-demand or on a daily basis. However, apart from the on-demand use of dapoxetine, all other premature ejaculation treatments are off-label.

SUMMARY

Drug treatment is the first choice of treatment for lifelong premature ejaculation and may also be indicated for acquired premature ejaculation. Together with the patient, the clinician can choose which drug and which treatment strategy is most suitable for the patient and his partner.

Risk of perioperative blood transfusions and postoperative complications associated with serotonergic antidepressants in older adults undergoing hip fracture surgery

Serotonergic antidepressants (SAds) are associated with bleeding-related adverse events. An increased risk of bleeding with SAds may have important implications in surgical settings. Our study evaluates the risk of red blood cell (RBC) transfusions and postoperative complications associated with SAds among older adults undergoing hip fracture surgery. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of individuals 66 years or older who underwent hip fracture surgery in Ontario, Canada. The risk of RBC transfusion among current users of SAds and nonserotonergic antidepressants (NSAds) was compared with recent former SAd users. Secondary outcomes included measures of postoperative morbidity and mortality. Subgroup analyses were undertaken in groups who were coprescribed other medications known to effect bleeding. Multivariable logistic regression was utilized to determine the odds ratios (ORs) for antidepressants and postoperative outcomes. A total 11,384 individuals were included in the study sample. Current SAd users had an increased risk of RBC transfusion compared with recent former users of SAds (OR, 1.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.14-1.43) as did current NSAd users (OR, 1.17; 95% confidence interval, 1.03-1.33). The risk of RBC transfusion with SAds or NSAds was further increased among individuals receiving antiplatelet agents. However, postoperative morbidity and mortality were not increased among either group of antidepressant users. In conclusion, SAds are associated with an increased risk of RBC transfusions, although this does not appear to result in major postoperative complications. Clinicians should be aware of this increased risk, although routine discontinuation of antidepressants before surgery is likely unwarranted in most cases.

Developmentally informed pharmacotherapy for child and adolescent depressive disorders

This article reviews evidence-based pharmacotherapy for children and adolescents with depression. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) support the use of fluoxetine for the treatment of childhood and adolescent depression as well as escitalopram in the treatment of adolescent depression. To date, one RCT has demonstrated the effectiveness of sertraline or citalopram for the treatment of major depressive disorder in youth. Only a small number of RCTs for depression have included children, and none of these trials were adequately powered to detect differences in the efficacy of medication between children and adolescents.

SSRI-induced coagulopathy: is it reality?

OBJECTIVES

To study the effect of escitalopram and fluoxetine on coagulation profile in patients with major depression.

METHOD

This was a prospective, open-label, single-centre study in 40 patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder. The patients were diagnosed using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition criteria. Twenty patients receiving escitalopram 10 mg per day and 20 patients receiving fluoxetine 20 mg per day participated in the study and were followed up for 3 months. Coagulation parameters - bleeding time, clotting time, platelet count, prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin kaolin time - were evaluated at baseline and after 3 months.

RESULTS

At the end of 3 months, a significant increase in bleeding time was seen in patients receiving fluoxetine, but within the normal range. No rise was seen in the group given escitalopram.

CONCLUSION

In patients with depression, fluoxetine increases bleeding time whereas escitalopram has no effect on coagulation profile. However, both the drugs can be used safely for long-term treatment.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and oral bleeding complications after invasive dental treatment

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to examine the frequency of oral bleeding complications after invasive dental procedures in patients taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medications.

STUDY DESIGN

In this retrospective cohort study, we included dental patients who had invasive dental treatment and were taking an SSRI medication. Data collected included demographics, medical history, dental visits and procedures, and use of adjunctive measures to control bleeding. Primary outcomes included documentation of return visits or phone calls to the dental clinic or emergency department (ED) for oral bleeding, and oral bleeding or use of blood products for inpatients.

RESULTS

There were 92 patients taking SSRIs who had 145 invasive procedure visits, consisting of extractions, implant surgery, alveoloplasty, periodontal surgery, subgingival scaling and root planning, and biopsy. There were 110 extraction visits yielding a total of 167 extractions. Among all patients, there was 1 return visit to the clinic and 1 telephone call with a chief complaint of oral bleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

The frequency of oral bleeding complications after invasive dental treatment is low to negligible in patients on SSRI medications.

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding in a patient with depression receiving selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor therapy

BACKGROUND

Serotonin plays an important role in the normal clotting phenomenon and is released by platelets. Platelets are dependent on a serotonin transporter for the uptake of serotonin, as they cannot synthesize it themselves. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) block the uptake of serotonin into platelets and can cause problems with clotting leading to bleeding.

AIM

This case report highlights the occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in the index case on initiating SSRI therapy for depression and the prompt resolution of the same on its discontinuation on two separate occasions.

CONCLUSION

SSRIs may cause upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. Physicians should be aware of the same and should try to rule out previous episodes of upper GI bleed or the presence of other risk factors which might predispose to it before prescribing SSRIs; they should also warn the patients about this potential side effect. Also, the presence of thalassemia trait in the index patient deserves special attention and needs to be explored to see if it might in any way contribute in potentiating this side effect of SSRIs.

Aggravation by paroxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, of antral lesions generated by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in rats

Recent clinical studies have suggested a risk of adverse gastric reactions from the concomitant use of selective serotonin (5-HT) reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). We examined the adverse effects of SSRIs on antral lesions produced by indomethacin in rats. Rats fasted for 24 h were refed for 1 h, then administered indomethacin (30 mg/kg s.c.) 1 h after the refeeding and killed 6 h later. Paroxetine (1-10 mg/kg) was given orally 30 min before indomethacin. Indomethacin caused antral lesions in refed rats. Paroxetine dose-dependently aggravated these lesions, despite provoking no damage by itself. Similar results were obtained when other NSAIDs such as diclofenac, flurbiprofen, and loxoprofen were coadministered with paroxetine or when indomethacin was coadministered with other antidepressants such as fluvoxamine and milnacipran, but not imipramine or maprotiline. Exogenous 5-HT also worsened the indomethacin-induced antral damage, whereas the aggravating effect of paroxetine was attenuated by ondansetron, a selective 5-HT(3) antagonist, but not antagonists for other 5-HT receptor subtypes. Indomethacin plus paroxetine had no effect on gastric secretion but significantly decreased mucosal superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity as well as GSH content. The antral damage induced by indomethacin plus paroxetine was significantly prevented by antisecretory (acid or pepsin) agents and mucosal protective agents as well as SOD and allopurinol. These results suggest that SSRIs aggravate NSAID-induced antral lesions, probably via the activation of 5HT(3) receptors, and the mechanism of aggravation may involve the corrosive action of acid/pepsin as well as an impaired antioxidative system.

Association between selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and gastrointestinal damage: advances and prospects

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are among the most commonly prescribed drugs in the world and have widely been used in the treatment of depression, because they have similar efficacy to tricyclic antidepressants and demonstrate a favorable safety and tolerability profile. However, with the increase in the number of patients receiving SSRIs, low-frequency adverse effects associated with use of SSRIs have become more prevalent. Since 1990, a number of case reports and epidemiological studies have described the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding in patients after the initiation of SSRI therapy. This article reviews the recent advances and future prospects for understanding the association between SSRIs and upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

Pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy of pediatric depression

IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD

Depressive disorders in children and adolescents are prevalent and impairing. Current available treatments of childhood depression have advanced over the years but still leave many patients with residual symptoms.

AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW

We here review the pharmacotherapy and psychoptherapy of pediatric major depressive disorder. We conducted a Pubmed review on this topic covering the last 30 years.

WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN

The reader will learn about the current evidence on the efficacy and safety of the different pediatric depression treatment modalities. We review evidence-based treatments, namely cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and antidepressant treatments. We critically review the extant clinical trials for these treatments, and discuss both antidepressants efficacy and adverse events, including risk for suicidal events.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE

Current treatments lead to a sustained response rate of up to 80% and a remission rate of 60% by 6 months, but we are in need of more personalized treatment to optimize treatment response. The identification of biomarkers of response may be the first step towards personalized treatment development.

[SSRI - treatment and bleeding. What risks do we take?]

Treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. The combination with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) further augments this hazard. Particular precaution is also necessary in patients on platelet aggregation inhibitors, with a known bleeding disorder or preceding gastrointestinal lesions. The incidence of bleeding events apart from the gastrointestinal tract, e.g. intracerebral hemorrhages, is not cumulated under SSRI treatment. This also applies for the combination of SSRI and coumarin or aspirin. Prescribing doctors have to be aware of the bleeding risks of SSRI and should explain this to their patients. High-risk patients have to be followed up closely and an SSRI with a low potential for drug interaction should be used. The prescription of gastroprotective agents and a change of the antidepressant should be considered in particular cases. We provide a literature survey and recommendations for the clinical routine.

Anticoagulation and psychotropic medications

Anticoagulants and psychotropic medications are commonly prescribed together. Thus, the potential for interaction exists. Whereas thrombolytics and heparins are implicated in few pharmacokinetic interactions, warfarin and platelet inhibitors have been implicated in various interactions with psychotropic medications. In this article, I review the various psychotropic drug classes' relationships to anticoagulants. In a field devoid of randomized, placebo-controlled trials, clinical vigilance is advised when managing patients on concomitant therapy.

Secondary stroke prevention strategies for the oldest patients: possibilities and challenges

Older adults are not only at higher risk of experiencing stroke, but also have multiple co-morbidities that make treatment for secondary stroke prevention challenging. Very few clinical trials specifically related to secondary stroke prevention treatment efficacy have focused on the oldest-old (>or=85 years) and, therefore, evidence-based recommendations for treatment specific to this population are not available. Some of the special considerations for stroke prevention treatments in older patients include careful titration of blood-pressure-lowering drugs to avoid hypotension, the risk of haemorrhagic stroke with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) and weighing the risk of recurrent ischaemia versus bleeding in patients taking antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy. The risk of peri-procedural complications appears to be high with both carotid angioplasty and stenting and carotid endarterectomy in older patients with carotid stenosis. Other common issues in older patients include adverse drug events, recognizing the risk of dementia, depression and osteoporosis and deciding when to discontinue secondary stroke prevention. In this review, we provide the practitioner with the evidence related to specific approaches to secondary stroke prevention in older patients, and identify the knowledge gaps that currently limit our ability to appropriately treat this vulnerable population.

Cognitive-behavioural therapy for late-life anxiety disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To examine and estimate the efficacy of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) for late-life anxiety disorders.

METHOD

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing CBT with i) a waiting-list control condition and ii) an active control condition controlling for non-specific effects in patients aged over 60 years and suffering from an anxiety disorder. The main outcome parameter of individual studies, i.e. effect on anxiety, was pooled using the standardized mean difference (SMD).

RESULTS

Seven papers fulfilled the inclusion criteria, including nine randomized controlled comparisons for 297 patients. Anxiety symptoms were significantly more reduced following CBT than after either a waiting-list control condition [SMD = -0.44 (95 CI: -0.84 -0.04), P = 0.03] or an active control condition [SMD = -0.51 (95 CI: -0.81, -0.21), P<0.001]. Additionally, CBT significantly alleviated accompanying symptoms of worrying and depression.

CONCLUSION

Cognitive-behavioural therapy is efficacious for the treatment of late-life anxiety disorders.

Moderate and high affinity serotonin reuptake inhibitors increase the risk of upper gastrointestinal toxicity

OBJECTIVE

Serotonin release from platelets is important for regulating hemostasis. Some prior studies suggest an association between use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and gastrointestinal bleeding and a possible synergistic effect of these medications with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This study examined the effect of medications that inhibit serotonin uptake on upper gastrointestinal toxicity.

METHODS

359 case subjects hospitalized for upper gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation, or benign gastric outlet obstruction were recruited from 28 hospitals. 1889 control subjects were recruited by random digit dialing from the same region. Data were collected during structured telephone interviews. Antidepressant medications were characterized according to their affinity for serotonin receptors. Exposure to medications required use on at least 1 day during the week prior to the index date.

RESULTS

Any moderate or high affinity serotonin reuptake inhibitor (MHA-SRI) use was reported by 61 cases (17.1%) and 197 controls (10.4%). After adjusting for potential confounders, MHA-SRI use was associated with a significantly increased odds of hospitalization for upper gastrointestinal toxicity (adjusted OR = 2.0, 95%CI 1.4-3.0). A dose-response relationship in terms of affinity for serotonin uptake receptors was not observed (p = 0.17). No statistical interaction was observed for use of high dose NSAIDs or aspirin concomitantly with MHA-SRIs (p = 0.5). When MHA-SRIs were used concomitantly with high dose NSAIDs, the adjusted odds ratio for the association with upper gastrointestinal toxicity was 3.5 (95%CI 1.9-6.6).

CONCLUSIONS

Use of MHA-SRIs is associated with an increased risk of hospitalization for upper gastrointestinal toxicity.

Meta-analysis: gastrointestinal bleeding due to interaction between selective serotonin uptake inhibitors and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

BACKGROUND

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been associated with upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage (UGIH) but the magnitude and characteristics of this reaction and possible interaction with concurrent Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) therapy are unknown.

AIM

To evaluate systematically the risk of UGIH with SSRIs, including interaction with NSAIDs.

METHODS

We searched PubMED, Science Citation Index, and trial registries for data on SSRIs, NSAIDs and UGIH. We evaluated spontaneous case reports from pharmacovigilance databases.

RESULTS

Random effects meta-analysis of four observational studies involving 153 000 patients showed an odds ratio of 2.36 (95% CI: 1.44-3.85; P = 0.0006) for SSRI associated UGIH. The odds ratio increased to 6.33 (95% CI: 3.40-11.8; P < 0.00001) with concomitant NSAIDs. In patients aged above 50 years with no UGIH risk factors, the Number-Needed-to-Harm per year is 411 for SSRIs alone, and 106 with concomitant NSAIDs. Analysis of 101 spontaneous reports showed that UGIH occurred after a median of 25 weeks with SSRIs. Around 67% of these patients were on NSAIDs.

CONCLUSIONS

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor use, alone and in combination with NSAIDs, substantially increases the risk of UGIH. Clinicians should consider this when managing patients at risk of, or presenting with UGIH.

Hematologic problems in psychosomatic medicine

Vitamin B12 deficiency is associated with problems in cognition, mood, psychosis, and less commonly, anxiety. Folate deficiency primarily is associated with problems in mood. Patients who have sickle cell disease, a disease of chronic pain, experience difficulties with depression, anxiety, stigma, and are at risk for substance abuse and dependence. Patients with hemophilia have benefited from advances in treatment; however, their morbidity and mortality were compounded in those who received blood products contaminated with HIV, or hepatitis B and C. Psychiatrists who practice psychosomatic medicine should expect to encounter patients with the above problems, as they are frequently seen in medical settings. Finally, most of the commonly used psychotropic medications have uncommon but potentially important hematologic side effects or may interact with the anticoagulants used in medically ill patients.

Practice parameter for the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with depressive disorders

This practice parameter describes the epidemiology, clinical picture, differential diagnosis, course, risk factors, and pharmacological and psychotherapy treatments of children and adolescents with major depressive or dysthymic disorders. Side effects of the antidepressants, particularly the risk of suicidal ideation and behaviors are discussed. Recommendations regarding the assessment and the acute, continuation, and maintenance treatment of these disorders are based on the existent scientific evidence as well as the current clinical practice.

Interaction between selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs: review of the literature

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the evidence of an interaction between selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) producing an increased risk for gastrointestinal adverse outcomes such as bleeding.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE for English-language literature published between 1966 and August 2005. All studies examining gastrointestinal adverse effects from an SSRI-NSAID combination were included.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Four retrospective studies examined gastrointestinal adverse outcomes from the combination of SSRIs and NSAIDs. The risk ratio for an upper gastrointestinal bleed from this drug combination (compared with not receiving either agent) ranged from 3.3-15.6, and the risk ratio for gastrointestinal adverse effects was 12.4. Two studies found that the risk for an upper gastrointestinal bleed from the drug combination exceeded the additive risk of the agents alone. The risk ratio for an upper gastrointestinal bleed from an SSRI-aspirin interaction was 1.9-7.2. In addition, the number needed to harm in terms of an upper gastrointestinal bleed from an SSRI-NSAID combination ranged from 62-75 patient-years, and the number needed to harm for gastrointestinal adverse effects was 2 patient-years.

CONCLUSION

Concurrent use of an SSRI and NSAID increases the risk of gastrointestinal adverse outcomes such as bleeding. Clinicians must take care to avoid these negative outcomes by altering NSAID or SSRI therapy, or by providing ulcer-protective drugs.

Premature Ejaculation

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a frequent male sexual complaint that is mediated mainly by disturbances of serotonergic neurotransmission and certain serotonin (5-HT) receptors and, to a lesser extent, oxytocinergic neurotransmission in the CNS. The current Diagnostic Manual of Mental Disorders (fourth edition, revised text) [DSM-IV-TR] definition of PE has a low positive predictive value and is inadequate for clinical, epidemiological and drug treatment research. Categorisation of PE into four well defined syndromes has recently been proposed for the pending DSM (fifth edition) definition of PE. Over the last decade, an increasing number of studies of drug treatment of PE have been published. A meta-analysis of those studies, conducted in accordance with current standards of evidence-based medicine, demonstrated similar efficacies for daily treatment with the serotonergic antidepressants paroxetine hemihydrate, clomipramine, sertraline and fluoxetine, with paroxetine (hydrochloride) hemihydrate exerting the strongest effect on ejaculation. On the basis of fundamental insights into serotonergic neurotransmission, it has been suggested that on-demand selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatment will not lead to similarly impressive delays in ejaculation as has been observed with daily SSRI treatment. Indeed, some on-demand studies with SSRIs and studies with the new SSRI dapoxetine have shown a weak ejaculation-delaying effect after 1-2 hours of drug intake. Apart from daily treatment with SSRIs, PE can be delayed by on-demand use of topical anaesthetics and tramadol. Treatment with phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors should not be prescribed to men with PE with normal erectile function, but may be used if PE is accompanied by erectile difficulties. There is no scientific support for treatment of PE with intracavernous injection of vasoactive drugs. Animal studies have shown that strong immediate ejaculation delay may be induced by administration of a combination of an SSRI with a serotonin 5-HT(1A) receptor antagonist. The combination of an SSRI and any other compound that immediately and potently raises serotonin neurotransmission and/or use of oxytocin receptor antagonists may form the basis for the development of new on-demand and/or daily drugs for the treatment of PE.

Post-MI psychiatric syndromes: six unanswered questions

Depression, anxiety, and other psychological variables following acute myocardial infarction (MI) have been the subject of intense study over the last two decades. Through selective literature review and editorial commentary, we address six vital, unanswered questions concerning these psychological variables and their impact on coronary outcome. The picture that emerges is complex. Despite all that has been learned about the nature, consequences, and management of post-MI depression and related disorders, there remain many open issues. First, the prevalence, phenomenology, medical impact, and method of diagnosis of post-MI depression and other psychiatric syndromes remain unclear. In addition, at least four pathophysiologic mechanisms have been proposed to explain the link between depression and cardiac disease, but evidence of causation remains elusive. There have been increasingly well-designed treatment studies of post-MI depression, but the optimal agents and timing of treatment have yet to be defined. Finally, few recent studies of post-MI anxiety have been conducted. To make further progress, large, multicenter trials that use optimized screening tools, obtain data at several time points, consider multiple psychosocial variables, and correct carefully for medical/cardiac severity are required.

Emerging drugs for premature ejaculation

Lifelong premature ejaculation (PE) is a frequent male sexual dysfunction and is thought to be mediated in part by disturbances of serotonergic (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) neurotransmission and ejaculation-mediating 5-HT receptors in the CNS. The aetiology of the dysfunction is unclear, but probably includes neurobiological and environmental factors. Lifelong PE is a syndrome characterised by a cluster of symptoms. Rapid ejaculations become manifest around the first sexual encounters in puberty or adolescence. Intravaginal ejaculation latency time usually occurs within 30-60 s, or maximally within 2 min after vaginal penetration, is present with nearly every sexual partner, and remains similar throughout life or may aggravate during ageing. The syndrome may lead to secondary psychological, sexual and relationship problems. Daily treatment with some selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) leads to strong ejaculation delay, but may be accompanied by side effects. New treatment with SSRIs with a short half-life (if approved) for on-demand use 1-2 h prior to coitus exerts less ejaculation-delaying effects than daily SSRI strategies. Animal studies have shown that strong, immediate ejaculation delay may be induced by the combination of an SSRI with a 5-HT(1A) receptor antagonist. The combination of an SSRI and any other compound that immediately strongly raises 5-HT neurotransmission may form the basis for the development of new on-demand drugs to treat PE.