Depression is common in older adults and those with cardiovascular disease. Although serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) generally have been shown to be safe to treat depression in these patients, it is important to identify additional antidepressants when SSRIs are not effective. This qualitative narrative review summarizes what is known about the cardiovascular side effects of some of the newer antidepressants.

Purpose/ Background: Venlafaxine is a commonly used antidepressant with both serotonergic and noradrenergic activity. There are concerns it may prolong the corrected QT interval (QTc), and older adults may be at higher risk for this adverse effect, especially at higher dosages of the medication. Methods/Procedures:In this secondary analysis of a prospective clinical trial, we measured changes in QTc and other ECG parameters in 169 adults aged ≥ 60 with a major depressive disorder treated acutely with venlafaxine extended release (XR) up to 300 mg daily. We examined the relationship of venlafaxine dosage and ECG parameters, as well as the relationship between serum levels of venlafaxine and ECG parameters.Findings/Results: Venlafaxine exposure was not associated with an increase in QTc. Heart rate increased with venlafaxine treatment, while the PR interval shortened, and QRS width did not change significantly. QTc change from baseline was not associated with venlafaxine dosages or