The Effects of Antidepressant Therapy on Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Depressive Symptoms

Abstract

Background. Symptoms of depression are often present in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and treatment of depression may substantially improve the quality of life of such patients. The aim of our study was to investigate factors that influence the efficacy of antidepressant therapy in terms of the quality of life in patients with COPD and a depressive disorder. Materials and Methods. The study was designed as a prospective cross-sectional study and conducted between October 2016 and December 2019 in the Primary Health Center, Kragujevac, Serbia. The study sample included 87 patients. Associations between putative risk factors and change in the quality-of-life score were tested by a multivariate linear regression model and interpreted by the regression coefficients. Results. Our study showed a clear positive effect of therapy with SSRIs on the severity of depression symptoms and the quality of life of patients with co-occurrence of COPD and depression. However, multiple linear regression shows that the effect of SSRIs was more prominent in patients with a higher degree of COPD severity since patients with lower FEV1 values had a more extensive increase in the Q-LES-Q-SF score (B=-0,034; p=0,020). Conclusion. Treatment of depression that accompanies COPD is an important segment of managing such patients, which significantly improves HRQoL. Patients with more severe COPD would especially benefit from such treatment since their response to SSRIs is more pronounced.

COPD and Depression Analysis in Regard to Obstructive Pulmonary Levels

“…The treatment of depression in patients with COPD requires a multidisciplinary approach [ 21 ]. However, there is a lack of research on the effects of treating depression in patients with COPD, e.g., [ 7 , 22 , 23 ], particularly in Balkan countries such as Serbia, e.g., [ 24 , 25 ].…”

Psychophysical and Social Functioning of Patients with Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease and Depression

“…), and by doctors (lack of knowledge about depression in COPD, short examination period, lack of time to educate and counsel patients about depression, lack of skills to perform psychiatric assessment, etc.) [18]. Currently, there are no evidence-based recommendations for the management of COPD-related depression and the administration of antidepressants in this patient population [19].…”

“…A number of studies have suggested that SSRIs may also have a beneficial effect on the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and mood disturbances experienced by patients with COPD. These medications may help improve overall well-being, reduce anxiety and depression, and enhance quality of life in COPD patients [18][19][20].…”