What Over-the-Counter Products Do Older Adults Use for Mental Health?
A comprehensive scoping review published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies examined over-the-counter products used by older people for depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Depression, anxiety, and insomnia are prevalent in older people and are associated with increased risk of mortality, dependency, falls, and reduced quality of life. Prior to or while seeking treatment, older people often manage these symptoms using products purchased over the counter (OTC), including herbal medicines, dietary supplements, and other complementary therapies.
Dr. Kumar’s Take
This scoping review addresses a critical gap in geriatric care - we know older adults frequently self-medicate with over-the-counter products for mental health symptoms, but we haven’t had comprehensive data on what they’re using and whether it’s safe or effective. This is particularly important because older adults are more vulnerable to drug interactions, have different metabolism, and often take multiple medications. The fact that many older adults turn to OTC products before seeking professional help means we need to understand what they’re using so we can provide proper guidance and avoid dangerous interactions. This research gives us the evidence base to have informed conversations with older patients about their self-medication practices.
Study Snapshot
This scoping review systematically examined research on over-the-counter products used by older people for depression, anxiety, and insomnia. The researchers analyzed studies that investigated the use, safety, and effectiveness of OTC products including herbal medicines, dietary supplements, and other complementary therapies in older adult populations. The review aimed to identify commonly used products and assess the evidence for their safety and efficacy in this vulnerable population.
Results in Real Numbers
The scoping review identified numerous over-the-counter products commonly used by older adults for mental health symptoms, including herbal medicines, dietary supplements, vitamins, minerals, and other complementary therapies. The analysis revealed patterns in product use, with certain supplements and herbal remedies being particularly popular among older adults seeking relief from depression, anxiety, and sleep problems.
The review found varying levels of evidence for the safety and effectiveness of different OTC products in older populations. Some products showed promising evidence for mental health benefits, while others had limited research support or potential safety concerns, particularly in older adults who may be more vulnerable to adverse effects and drug interactions.
The research highlighted the need for better evidence-based guidance on OTC product use in older adults, as many products lack adequate safety and efficacy data specific to this population.
Who Benefits Most
Older adults who are currently using or considering over-the-counter products for depression, anxiety, or insomnia may benefit most from the evidence-based information provided in this review. Healthcare providers caring for older patients can use these findings to provide informed guidance about OTC product use and potential interactions.
Caregivers and family members of older adults may also benefit from understanding which OTC products have evidence support and which may pose risks, enabling them to support informed decision-making about complementary therapies.
Safety, Limits, and Caveats
The scoping review revealed significant gaps in safety and efficacy data for many OTC products used by older adults, highlighting the need for more research specific to this population. Older adults are at higher risk for adverse effects and drug interactions due to age-related changes in metabolism and polypharmacy.
The quality and regulation of OTC products varies significantly, and many products lack standardization or quality control measures. Individual responses to OTC products can vary greatly, particularly in older adults with multiple health conditions and medications.
Practical Takeaways
- Discuss all over-the-counter products with healthcare providers before use, especially if you’re taking prescription medications or have multiple health conditions
- Understand that “natural” doesn’t always mean safe, particularly for older adults who may be more vulnerable to adverse effects
- Choose OTC products with evidence support for safety and effectiveness in older adult populations when possible
- Be aware that many OTC products lack adequate research in older adults, making their safety and effectiveness uncertain
- Keep detailed records of all OTC products used to help healthcare providers assess for potential interactions and side effects
What This Means for Geriatric Care
This scoping review highlights the need for healthcare providers to routinely assess OTC product use in older adults and provide evidence-based guidance about safety and effectiveness. The findings support the development of clinical guidelines for OTC product use in geriatric populations.
The research also emphasizes the importance of improving regulation and quality control of OTC products, particularly those marketed to older adults for mental health conditions.
Related Studies and Research
- Social Connection as Critical Factor for Health
- Optimal Exercise Dose for Depression in Older Adults
- Light Therapy for Dementia: Sleep, Depression, and Cognition
- Major Depressive Disorder: Comprehensive Overview
FAQs
Are over-the-counter products safe for older adults with mental health symptoms?
Safety varies significantly by product, and older adults are at higher risk for adverse effects and interactions. Always consult healthcare providers before using OTC products.
Which OTC products have the best evidence for mental health benefits in older adults?
The review identified varying levels of evidence for different products, with some showing promise while others lack adequate research in older populations.
Should older adults avoid OTC products for mental health?
Not necessarily, but they should use them under healthcare provider guidance and choose products with evidence support for safety and effectiveness in older adults.
Bottom Line
This scoping review reveals that older adults commonly use various over-the-counter products for depression, anxiety, and insomnia, but many lack adequate safety and efficacy evidence specific to this vulnerable population. Healthcare providers need to routinely assess and guide OTC product use in older adults to ensure safety and effectiveness.
