The use of dexamethasone in elderly patients with antidepressant-resistant depressive illness.
Many depressed patients do not respond to first-line antidepressant treatment. Dexamethasone is a synthetic steroid which may have antidepressant properties. Its use in two elderly patients with resistant depression is reported. Both patients appeared to benefit from the treatment. The possible modes of action of this treatment, and its potential benefits to the elderly, are discussed.
Bodani
M
M
Maudsley Hospital, London, UK.
Sheehan
B
B
Philpot
M
M
D000368:Aged; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D003907:Dexamethasone / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006854:Hydrocortisone / Q000097:blood; D008297:Male; D012008:Recurrence
D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D003907:Dexamethasone; D006854:Hydrocortisone