Prozac side effects could increase risk of fractures for seniors
According to studies released earlier this week, Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft and other antidepressants in the class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), appear to weaken bones in elderly people, and could lead to disabling fractures. Together, these drugs account for over 60% of all antidepressant prescriptions in the United States.
>>INFORMATION: Antidepressant side effects
On Monday two new studies were published in the Archives of Internal Medicine journal regarding the effect of antidepressants on bone mass among older adults taking antidepressants. These studies found that the use of SSRI antidepressants is associated with an increased rate of bone loss, which could increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
The studies found a link between the SSRI antidepressants and the functioning of cells associated with bone health. SSRIs operate by blocking a protein that is found in both the brain and in bone. This protein works as a conveyer of serotonin, the chemical linked to sleep, mood and depression. By inhibiting the serotonin protein of the brain, it appears that SSRI antidepressants are also weakening bones.
While the studies did not specifically look at the risk of fracture, an earlier study published in January 2007 did find that older adults taking antidepressants such as Prozac, Zoloft and Paxil, face twice the risk of fractures when compared to those taking a placebo.
>>PRIOR POST 1/24/2007: Antidepressant fractures
As many as 40% of elderly adults are taking an antidepressant and loss of bone density could pose a significant health risk for them. Balance and equilibrium problems among older adults greatly increase the risk of falls, and a broken bone is much more disabling for older adults who are slower to heal and generally weaker. Complications which arise from bone fractures could also result in life-altering injuries, or even death in some cases.
Researchers have indicated that further studies are necessary to judge the extent of the problems which antidepressants cause, especially given the benefits antidepressants provide in treating depression in seniors. Some experts have suggested that seniors taking antidepressants may need to take other bone strengthening drugs, such as Fosomax, to combat the potential bone loss. However, chasing one drug’s side effects with another medication is never appealing. Fosamax itself has been linked to jaw problems, with an increased risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw.
ANTIDEPRESSANT SIDE EFFECT LAWSUITS
The lawyers at Saiontz, Kirk & Miles, P.A. are reviewing potential antidepressant lawsuits for users of Paxil, Prozac, Zoloft and other SSRI antidepressants for several different side effects which have been associated with the drugs. The medications are linked to an increased risk of suicides among teens and young adults, birth defects when taken during pregnancy and serotonin syndrome when taking with certain migraine drugs.
>>RELATED POST 6/28/07: Paxil birth defects study
Our lawyers are closely reviewing the potential impact these drugs have on bone loss and the potential for fractures. If you, a friend or family member suffered a serious permanent injury as a result of an antidepressant fracture, request a free consultation.
