Generic placeholder image

Current Molecular Medicine

Editor-in-Chief

ISSN (Print): 1566-5240
ISSN (Online): 1875-5666

Depression and Disturbed Bone Metabolism: A Narrative Review of the Epidemiological Findings and Postulated Mechanisms

Author(s): J.D. Rosenblat, J.M. Gregory, A.F. Carvalho and R.S. McIntyre

Volume 16, Issue 2, 2016

Page: [165 - 178] Pages: 14

DOI: 10.2174/1566524016666160126144303

Price: $65

Abstract

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a pervasive chronic condition that contributes substantially to the global burden of disease and disability. Adding to the complexity of this disorder are numerous associated medical comorbidities with a bidirectional impact on morbidity and mortality. In recent years, osteoporosis has been increasingly identified as a significant comorbidity of MDD. This narrative review examines the literature to summarize key epidemiological studies and discuss postulated mechanisms of interaction. Epidemiological studies have repeatedly shown an increased co-prevalence of fractures and decreased bone mineral density (BMD) in MDD. The pathophysiological mechanism underlying this interaction is undoubtedly complex and multifactorial, and proposed pathways have varying levels of evidence from preclinical and clinical models. Conceptually, the mechanisms by which depression might influence bone metabolism can be categorized into biological, behavioral, iatrogenic, and comorbidity-related factors. Biological factors include the inflammatory-mood pathway, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation, metabolic dysfunction, and serotonin’s direct and indirect effects on bone cells. Behavioral factors incorporate lifestyle choices typical in depressed patients, such as increased tobacco use or limited exercise. The prominent iatrogenic factor is the independent effects of anti-depressants on bone metabolism. Psychiatric and medical comorbidities common to both osteoporosis and MDD are also important to consider. Physical activity promotion, vitamin D supplementation, and routine BMD screening of MDD patients are simple interventions that might lead to improved outcomes for both conditions. An improved understanding of the underlying mechanisms may yield insights into novel prevention and treatment strategies to target osteoporosis and fractures in the MDD population.

Keywords: Osteoporosis, bone mineral density (BMD), fractures, major depressive disorder (MDD), antidepressants, cytokines, vitamin D, serotonin.


Rights & Permissions Print Cite
© 2024 Bentham Science Publishers | Privacy Policy