This week features research on some unexpected benefits of antidepressants, the potential side effects of pirfenidone, and a higher suicide risk from an unexpected source.
Antidepressants Could Cut Cardiovascular Risk in Female Veterans
In a new Journal of Clinical Psychiatry study, which covered more than 600,000 female veterans, researchers found a link between antidepressants (especially SSRIs and SNRIs) and a lower cardiovascular disease risk.
The study, which included nearly two decades of Veterans Health Administration data, took a closer look at whether these popular mental health medications influence long-term heart health.
Researchers analyzed the effects of antidepressants on the incidence of ischemic heart disease, stroke, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and pulmonary hypertension. Women on antidepressants showed a lower overall cardiovascular risk, especially ischemic heart disease and stroke, compared to those who weren’t. The defensive benefits appeared strongest among women who’d already been prescribed these meds for an existing psychiatric disorder.
Even so, the researchers did single out a few risks:
- SNRIs increased the early risk of atrial fibrillation and heart failure.
- SSRIs increased the risk of pulmonary hypertension over time.
These complex results illustrate the importance of tailored treatment strategies, especially for patients with more complicated psychiatric and cardiovascular profiles.
The study appears to be one of the largest to apply marginal structural modeling to examine antidepressant use and heart disease, which offers more robust control for confounding variables than earlier studies. While these results show promise, researchers warn that more research could help figure out how (exactly) antidepressants influence cardiovascular outcomes.
IN OTHER PSYCHIATRY AND NEUROLOGY NEWS
- A case study in this week’s Primary Care Companion for CNS Disorders discusses pirfenidone and its potential rapid-onset psychiatric side effects, including athazagoraphobia and insomnia.
- Original JCP research shows that atopic dermatitis drives up the risk of suicide, especially in younger and female patients.
- Another PCC case report illustrates how risperidone LAI can offer symptom stabilization and curb emergency service use in bipolar patients who are on the spectrum.
- JCP presents part two of a new limited series on developing a treatment-resistant depression consultation program.
- And, finally, a new study offers an interesting look into an old concept.
