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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Recommend Antidepressants

Grieving the loss of my 95 year old mother....I was her primary caregiver for three years here in my homel. Feeling very, very sad that she was basically home bound during the last few years of her life and am feeling traumatized by the suffering she endured with CHFand finally passing away from sepsis. Will antidepressants help?
Tue, 9 Dec 2014
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello thanks for asking from HCM

She is 95 and has suffered CHF (cardiac failure) and sepsis. Recently she has developed depressive symptoms and she became home bound. At this age depression can be aggravated by associated cognitive decline or dementia. So I would advise you to get her evaluated for any dementia and depression. Medicines can help to treat depression. Sertraline is one of SSRI medicines that can be used in elderly without any risk. The drug is also safe to use in cardiac patients. Cognitive enhancers like Donepezil, Memantin etc will also help in improving her cognition and mood.
I would advise you to consult a psychiatrist for treatment and evaluation.

Thanks, hope this helps you.
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Recommend Antidepressants

Hello thanks for asking from HCM She is 95 and has suffered CHF (cardiac failure) and sepsis. Recently she has developed depressive symptoms and she became home bound. At this age depression can be aggravated by associated cognitive decline or dementia. So I would advise you to get her evaluated for any dementia and depression. Medicines can help to treat depression. Sertraline is one of SSRI medicines that can be used in elderly without any risk. The drug is also safe to use in cardiac patients. Cognitive enhancers like Donepezil, Memantin etc will also help in improving her cognition and mood. I would advise you to consult a psychiatrist for treatment and evaluation. Thanks, hope this helps you.