New research from Queen's University Belfast has issued a warning about an increased risk of death for some individuals taking commonly prescribed antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications, including Sertraline, Citalopram, and Fluoxetine. The study, led by researchers from the School of Pharmacy and Centre for Public Health, suggests that these medications may not always be appropriate for people living with dementia.
Study Findings on Medication Risks
Dementia, a progressive condition affecting memory and cognitive function, is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. With an ageing population, the prevalence of dementia is expected to rise, currently affecting over 55 million people globally, with approximately 10 million new cases each year. Dr Catherine Sinnamon, lead author of the study and a postgraduate research student at the School of Pharmacy, emphasised that there is currently no effective treatment for dementia, making it crucial to explore ways to improve health and quality of life while reducing social and economic burdens.
People with dementia often suffer from multiple medical conditions, leading to the prescription of various medications. Dr Sinnamon noted that sometimes these medicines may not be suitable. The study aimed to assess how antidepressants affect individuals with dementia to ensure optimal treatment and care.
Data Analysis Over Nine Years
The research analysed prescribing trends for depression and anxiety medications in dementia patients and examined the association between these drugs and mortality risk. The team studied 28,781 individuals with dementia in Northern Ireland over a nine-year period from 2012 to 2020, during which half of the participants died.
Results showed that antidepressants were prescribed to 59.2% of those who died, while 44.8% received anti-anxiety medications. The findings indicated a slight increased risk of death among dementia patients prescribed antidepressants and a strong increased risk for those on anti-anxiety medications.
Calls for Regular Medication Reviews
Dr Heather Barry, principal investigator on the study, stated that the findings extend current knowledge and highlight the importance of judicious prescribing for people with dementia. She stressed the need for regular and thorough medication reviews by GPs or pharmacists to ensure that prescriptions remain appropriate and necessary.
The study was supported by staff at the Honest Broker Service within the Business Services Organisation Northern Ireland, funded by the BSO and the Department of Health.
