Authors' recommendations: Despite the high frequency of Parkinson's disease (PD)-associated depression, pharmacological interventions have been poorly studied and the available data are conflicting. To date, the long-term safety and efficacy of antidepressants in the treatment of depression in PD has not been demonstrated. The scarcity of controlled trials and the variability of study methodologies complicate the interpretation and generalizability of the results. There is evidence that TCAs may not be as poorly tolerated, and SSRIs may not be as efficacious as currently perceived. Two ongoing placebo-controlled RCTs assessing the effectiveness of venlafaxine versus paroxetine and atomoxetine for the treatment of depression in PD will be of interest. Until further evidence available, the choice of antidepressant should depend on the presence and nature of co-morbid conditions, potential interactions with concomitant medications, patient acceptability, and the adverse effect profile of the antidepressant.

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.cadth.ca/en/products/rapid-response/2009/01?&tab=summary

Year Published: 2009

URL for published report: http://www.cadth.ca/media/pdf/htis/L0060%20Pharmacological%20Mgt.%20of%20Depression%20in%20Parkinson's%20Disease%20final.pdf

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Canada

Organisation Name: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health

Contact Address: 600-865 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1S 5S8 Canada. Tel: +1 613 226 2553; Fax: +1 613 226 5392;

Contact Name: requests@cadth.ca

Contact Email: requests@cadth.ca

Copyright: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH)