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Drugs plus therapy are best for depression CHICAGO (January 5, 1999 5:06 p.m. EST <http://www.nandotimes.com>) - A one-two punch of antidepressant medication and psychotherapy, instead of drugs alone, may be the best way to treat recurring depression in elderly patients, according to a study published Tuesday. Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center said they based their conclusion on a look at 187 patients with an average age of 67. Initially all of the patients were treated with the antidepressant nortriptyline hydrochloride and psychotherapy for 16 weeks. Those whose condition had stabilised were then placed in one of four groups. One received the drug only, the second an inert placebo, the third the drug and monthly interpersonal psychotherapy, and the fourth monthly psychotherapy and a placebo. After three years, only 20 percent of those who got the drug plus psychotherapy had a recurrence of depression. The rates of recurrence in the other test groups were much higher, ranging from 43 percent to 90 percent. While drugs alone may treat depression in younger people, the study said, the new research indicates that both drugs and psychotherapy are warranted for older patients. The study was published in this week's Journal of the American Medical Association. Copyright 1999 Nando Media Copyright 1999 Reuters News Service janet paterson - 51 now /41 dx /37 onset - almonte/ontario/canada <http://www.newcountry.nu/pd/members/janet/index.htm> [log in to unmask]