A hidden, deadly danger to ANTIDEPRESSANTS

When you hear the term DEPRESSION, it’s probably not at the top of your list of age-related health concerns.

But the reality is, depression is a very COMMON – and very REAL – concern for older adults.

In fact, studies by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that nearly 7 MILLION adults over the age of 65 experience depression each year.

And many older adults treat depression with antidepressant medication – a treatment that has gone up 19% among U.S. adults over the age of 60.

But now, researchers are sounding the alarm about a common antidepressant.

Here’s everything you need to know, including steps you can take to make an informed decision about taking ANY antidepressant.

According to a research study out of the United Kingdom, one of the top antidepressants on the market shows no benefits… and even increases the risk of DEATH among adults that show dementia-related symptoms.

The study found that an antidepressant mirtazapine failed to provide ANY benefit for dementia patients dealing with agitation… and patients taking mirtazapine had a higher likelihood of death than those taking a placebo.

It should be noted that the study was only looking at folks with dementia, or who experienced dementia-like symptoms. But findings linking depression, antidepressants, and dementia are still important.

A common symptom of dementia is agitation – which is commonly treated with antidepressants like mirtazapine.

But this study found that this common treatment doesn’t provide any real results… and increases the risk of death among dementia patients.

I don’t know about you, but that sounds like a ‘lose-lose’ situation!

What does this all mean for you… especially if you’re currently taking antidepressants and/or showing signs of dementia?

To start, have a thorough conversation with your doctor. Discuss any medications you’re taking, known side effects, and your long-term health.

You can also look into natural alternatives to antidepressants.

S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e), St. John’s Wort, and even omega-3 fatty acids have all been found to help improve your mood without the side effects of antidepressant drugs.

If you’re considering any of these, be sure to talk with your doctor. And never stop a current medication without consulting with your primary care or alternative health doctor.

To a natural alternative to antidepressants,

Sarah Reagan

Sources:

Melore, Chris. “Common antidepressant shows no benefits, higher risk of death for dementia patients.” https://studyfinds.org/common-antidepressant-dementia/

Cirino, Erica. “Depression and Aging.” https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/elderly-and-aging

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Antidepressant Use Among Adults: United States, 2015-2018.” https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db377.htm

Villines, Zawn. “6 natural antidepressants: Are they effective?” https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/6-natural-antidepressants