Antidepressant use and its relationship with current symptoms in a population-based sample of older Australians

Abstract

Background Australia has the second highest per capita users of antidepressants globally, and their use is pronounced in older Australians. A better understanding of antidepressant use in older adults is important because the elderly are often prescribed multiple drugs, without review, for long periods. Methods This study analysed questionnaire data obtained from the Personality and Total Health through life project. Individual respondent data was linked to Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) records. Associations between self-reported medicine use and current symptoms with antidepressant dispensing were examined. Results 1275 participants aged over 65 were included in the final analysis...