Depression in the elderly. II. Possible drug etiologies; differential diagnostic criteria.

Drugs for the treatment of various medical or psychiatric disorders may sometimes cause or exacerbate depression in the elderly. Drug interactions due to polypharmacy (a common method of prescribing for aged patients) may also play a role the genesis of depression. The roles of specific drugs and of drug interactions are reviewed. Criteria for the diagnosis of depression in the elderly, as well as differential diagnostic guidelines, are presented and constructive suggestions offered.