The Treatment of Depression in Parkinson's Disease

Although it is frequently characterized as a movement disorder, it has been suggested that Parkinson's disease (PD) may be more accurately considered a neuropsychiatric disorder. Depression is the most common mental health disorder in patients with PD; however, effective treatment remains poorly defined. Untreated or inadequately treated depression in PD can result in motor-symptom exacerbation, increased disability, impaired quality of life, and worse outcomes. Nonpharmacologic treatment improves symptoms, but when used alone it may be insufficient for severe depression. A variety of antidepressants are used to treat depression in PD. Because medication regimens for PD can be complex, the pharmacist's knowledge of potential drug-drug interactions, adverse effects, and contraindications associated with antidepressants is critically important for reducing the risk of adverse effects.