Myocardial Infarction and Depression



Bagherian R¹ ; Saneei H² ; Baghbanian A³
Source: Journal of Isfahan Medical School Published:2011

Abstract

Background: Depressive symptoms are common among post myocardial infarction (MI) patients and may cause negative impacts on cardiac prognosis. 35 to 45% of MI patients report depression. While depression is as an independent risk factor for MI, post MI depression has been shown to be as a risk factor for mortality, morbidity and decreased quality of life in post MI patients. The link between depression and MI is bidirectional. Behavioral and biological mechanisms were proposed as the plausible mechanisms involved in this link. The combination of these mechanisms are likely to involve in increasing the risk of mortality. Epidemiological studies have shown the link between depression and increased risk for development of cardiovascular disease, MI and cardiac mortality. The adverse impact of depression on prognosis of heart disease is preventable with the right treatment. A number of therapeutic approaches have been advocated for post-MI depression, including cardiac rehabilitation, social support, cognitive behavior therapy, and antidepressants. Because of adverse effects, it is recommended to avoid prescription of tricyclics for treating post MI depression. If SSRIs are prescribed shortly after MI the important side effects caused by them will be low.