The Role of SNRI's in Preventing Depression Following Lower Extremity Fragility Fractures in Older Adults

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the feasibility of prescribing anti-depressants at discharge for patients aged 50 years and older who have experienced lower extremity fragility fractures. This pilot study aims to understand obstacles to enrolling patients and prescribing serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), assess the possibility of starting SNRI medication upon discharge, and investigate the prevalence of depressive symptoms among different injury types and weightbearing statuses. It also seeks to develop a transition of care plan for older patients with depression requiring further support. Participants will receive Duloxetine 30mg daily prescribed at discharge, with a 90-day supply plus three refills. They will be monitored over a year, with monthly reports on medication compliance and rescreening using the Geriatric Depression Scale. Referrals to behavioral health, primary care, or psychiatry will be given if depressive symptoms are detected. The study addresses medication procurement challenges and patient concerns related to starting new treatment after injury. During the study, participants will undergo initial and periodic depression screenings and complete patient-reported outcome measures at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. Researchers will monitor physical function, side effects, hospital readmissions, re-operations, mortality, and re-fractures. The study's primary measurements involve tracking Geriatric Depression Scale scores at baseline and up to one year. Participation spans at least one year from discharge, with ongoing assessments to understand the impact of early SNRI use in this population.

Serotonin-norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor in Prophylaxis of Depression Following Fragility Fractures