Which factor is a medication-related risk for suicide in depressed older adults?

Which factor is a medication-related risk for suicide in depressed older adults?

• A. Side effects of medication (suicidal thoughts)
• B. Regular exercise
• C. Sleep deprivation
• D. Low vitamin D

Answer: (A)

Medication effects can shape suicide risk in depressed older adults. Some drugs, or combinations, can trigger new or worsened suicidal thoughts as a side effect, especially after starting, stopping, or changing a dose or when interactions occur. This makes medication side effects a genuine, medication-related risk factor for suicidality in older patients with depression. In practice, review the full medication list, monitor mood after initiating or adjusting therapy, and be alert for agitation, insomnia, or delirium that may accompany certain meds. By contrast, regular exercise, adequate sleep, or addressing vitamin D status influence mood but are not medication-related risks themselves; they can improve mood and reduce risk when properly managed.

Medication effects can shape suicide risk in depressed older adults. Some drugs, or combinations, can trigger new or worsened suicidal thoughts as a side effect, especially after starting, stopping, or changing a dose or when interactions occur. This makes medication side effects a genuine, medication-related risk factor for suicidality in older patients with depression. In practice, review the full medication list, monitor mood after initiating or adjusting therapy, and be alert for agitation, insomnia, or delirium that may accompany certain meds. By contrast, regular exercise, adequate sleep, or addressing vitamin D status influence mood but are not medication-related risks themselves; they can improve mood and reduce risk when properly managed.