What are the effects of antidepressant medication on morbidity and mortality in depressed patients after myocardial infarction?
A meta-analysis of the effects of anxiety and depression on patient adherence showed that depression is a risk factor for noncompliance with medical treatment. Studies have also found that antidepressant medication can have beneficial effects on morbidity and mortality in depressed patients after myocardial infarction. For example, a study by Taylor et al. found that antidepressant medication had a positive effect on mortality in depressed patients after myocardial infarction. Similarly, a study by Murray and Lopez found that depression was associated with a higher risk of mortality in patients with coronary artery disease. Furthermore, a study by Frasure-Smith et al. found that depression following myocardial infarction had a negative impact on month survival. Finally, a study by Rudisch and Nemeroff found that comorbid coronary artery disease and depression was associated with a higher risk of mortality. Taken together, these studies suggest that antidepressant medication can have beneficial effects on morbidity and mortality in depressed patients after myocardial infarction.  