Depression Treatment: Anxiety and Depression Symptoms in Patients With Sleep-Disordered Breathing.

Anxiety and depression symptoms in patients with sleep-disordered breathing.

Filed under: Depression Treatment

Open Respir Med J. 2012; 6: 97-103
Reyes-Zúñiga M, Castorena-Maldonado A, Carrillo-Alduenda JL, Pérez-Padilla R, Martínez-Estrada A, Gómez-Torres L, Torre-Bouscoulet L

Information concerning the frequency of anxiety and depression symptoms in patients with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is controversial. Hence, the objectives of this study were to: determine the frequency of anxiety and depression symptoms in patients with SDB; explore whether the frequency of anxiety and depression symptoms rises with increasing parameters of SDB severity; and investigate the factors potentially associated with anxiety and depression.Data was collected from consecutive adult patients referred to the National Institute of Respiratory Diseases’ Sleep Medicine Unit from October 2008 to October 2009. SDB diagnoses were established using standard polysomnography or simplified respiratory polygraphy. All patients routinely completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) on their first visit to the Sleep Medicine Unit.382 patients with SDB were included. Mean age was 50.8±13.6 years, 62% were male. Anxiety symptoms were acknowledged by 71 patients (18.5%), while 29 (7.6%) had depression symptoms, and 116 (30.4%) had symptoms of anxiety plus depression. Patients who reported anxiety and depression symptoms scored higher on the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS, 16±7) than those with no symptoms (11±6) (p<0.0001). Patients with symptoms of anxiety plus depression also had higher BMIs (36 ± 8 K/m(2)) than patients with SDB without anxiety or depression. No other differences were observed, not even with respect to the parameters of the severity of their SDB.Our results support the recommendation that due to their high frequency and potential importance for long-term adherence to CPAP, anxiety and depression symptoms should be included in the routine evaluation of all adults with SDB. HubMed – depression

 

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in pregnancy and infant outcomes.

Filed under: Depression Treatment

Paediatr Child Health. 2011 Nov; 16(9): 562-3
Jefferies AL,

Adequate treatment of depression during pregnancy is very important for maternal, fetal and neonatal health. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used antidepressants. According to one American study, approximately 7% of pregnant women were prescribed an SSRI in 2004-2005. First trimester use of SSRIs, as a group, is unlikely to increase the risk of congenital malformations. Paroxetine may be associated with a small increased risk of cardiac malformations, but evidence remains inconclusive. Fetal exposure to SSRIs closer to time of birth may result in respiratory, motor, central nervous system and gastrointestinal symptoms in about 10% to 30% of newborns (SSRI neonatal behaviour syndrome). These symptoms are usually mild and transient. Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn is an extremely rare consequence of fetal exposure. This information should be used to make individual risk-benefit decisions when considering the treatment of depression during pregnancy. Newborns with late-pregnancy exposure to SSRIs should be observed in hospital for at least 48 h.
HubMed – depression

 

Antidepressant use in children and adolescents: Practice touch points to guide paediatricians.

Filed under: Depression Treatment

Paediatr Child Health. 2011 Nov; 16(9): 549-53
Oberlander TF, Miller AR

Depression in children and youth is common, and requires an understanding of its developmental character and associated comorbid conditions. Initial treatment of mild depression involves active supportive measures with a focus on symptom reduction and improved daily function. Where pharmacotherapy is warranted, evidence supports the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants, particularly fluoxetine, to manage moderate/severe depression. SSRI treatment should include a comprehensive management plan in the context of interdisciplinary care, an understanding of its pharmacology and clearly articulated goals for symptom reduction, functional status tracking (school, home and peers) and monitoring for the emergence of suicidal ideation/behaviour. For children with more severe symptoms or complicating factors (comorbid conditions), referral to mental health clinicians should be considered. Use of an SSRI should be associated with family/patient education about medication effects, specific social and health goals that promote self-esteem, improved function and close monitoring for adverse effects.
HubMed – depression

 

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