Antidepressant medications in cancer patients

The patterns of psychotropic medications usage were analysed in 146 cancer patients consecutively referred to an urban psychiatric facility. Antidepressants were prescribed for 67%. Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were noted in 34%, the commonest ADRs were sedation, dry mouth, restlessness and constipation. The ADRs were selflimiting and tolerable in 16% and severe and intolerable in 17%. Most patients (80%) receiving antidepressants showed a good clinical response in terms of amelioration of psychological symptoms. Most patients found relief from distressing psychological symptoms; the majority did not suffer significant adverse effects.