Use of antidepressant and antipsychotic drugs in subjects with hemophilia of the Umbria Region in the period 2011-2022

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic diseases, such as hemophilia, can evoke psychological sequelae and be associated with a higher risk of mental health disorders. The utilization of antidepressant and antipsychotic drugs in subjects with hemophilia is not completely understood and few data are available.

Objectives: The aim of this analysis is to describe use of antidepressant and antipsychotic drugs in subjects with hemophilia of the Umbria Region in the period 2011-2022.

Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional, and retrospective analysis based on data on filled prescriptions for antidepressants and antipsychotics has been carried out. The overall and annual prevalence of drugs use and consumption were calculated based on pharmaceutical prescriptions charged to the National Health Service in subjects with hemophilia and matched controls from general population.

Results: In the study period 170 subjects with hemophilia were identified; about 80% were male. About 20% and 8.2% received antidepressants and antipsychotics, respectively. A higher percentage of users and consumption were found in subjects with hemophilia compared to matched controls, although no statistically significant differences were observed.

Conclusions: Our analysis suggests that depression and psychosis are important comorbidities in subjects with hemophilia. Further larger studies are needed in order to confirm these data and better define the burden of mental health disorders in subjects with hemophilia.