Are Stimulant Medications (Such As Methylphenidate Or Ritalin) Helpful For Treating Depression In Seniors?

Dr. Barry Rovner answers the question: 'Stimulants For Depression In Seniors?'

ByABC News
February 27, 2008, 5:43 PM

— -- Question: Are stimulant medications (such as methylphenidate or Ritalin) helpful for treating depression in seniors?

Answer: Stimulant medications such as Ritalin are not direct treatments for depression. Although sometimes physicians add Ritalin to antidepressants to boost their effect. But by themselves stimulants do not treat depression.

Next: Are There Any Medications With Which Antidepressants Should Not Be Combined In Seniors?

Previous: Is It Safe For Pregnant Or Breastfeeding Women To Take Antidepressant Medications?