Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) Practice Exam 2026 - Free FHEA Practice Questions and Study Guide

Fluoxetine (Prozac®) is considered the least preferred option for treating depression in elderly patients, particularly in an 82-year-old man, due to its longer half-life and potential for drug interactions, which can be especially problematic in older adults who may be taking multiple medications. This extended half-life can lead to a greater accumulation of the drug in the body, resulting in increased side effects and prolonged exposure. Additionally, fluoxetine can be stimulating for some patients, which might not be suitable for the elderly, who could be more sensitive to the effects of medications.

In contrast, options like sertraline, citalopram, and escitalopram are generally preferred for treating depression in the elderly due to their more favorable side effect profiles and shorter half-lives, which can lead to a more manageable dosing schedule and a reduced risk of excessive accumulation of the medication. These factors make the other medications better suited for older adults, enhancing safety and tolerance in this age group.