Pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy in the treatment of depression in the elderly

Abstract

This study compared the treatment of elderly depressed patients with pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy versus psychotherapy. Of the 30 patients enrolled, 27 completed the 9-month study; 14 patients were on an SSRI (Sertraline) and psychotherapy, and 13 patients on psychotherapy. It was found that 72% of patients on Sertraline and psychotherapy recovered compared to 62% on psychotherapy alone. Improvement in the combination therapy was observed on the fourth week of treatment and for patients on psychotherapy, improvement was observed on the sixth week. The limitations of this open trial are discussed.