Background: Despite a growing use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in older people, only one trial has examined their prophylactic efficacy in people aged 65 years and over.
Aims: To examine the efficacy of sertraline in preventing the recurrence of depression in older people living in the community.
Method: Participants were openly treated with sertraline and then randomised into a double-blind, placebo-controlled continuation/maintenance study of about 2 years duration. Drug dosage was maintained at levels that achieved remission.
Results: No significant difference between the sertraline and placebo groups was found in the proportion of recurrences (-7.9%; 95% CI -28.06 to 12.23). Increased age and minor residual symptoms during the continuation phase were associated with recurrence.
Conclusions: Sertraline at therapeutic dosage does not provide significant protection against recurrence.