Are patients often given an antidepressant after leg amputation?

Yes: A leg amputation is a major life altering event. Depression is a common side effect. Antidepressants along with therapy are a widely accepted approach to help cope with this dramatic event.

Sometimes: While not all patients develop significant depression following an amputation, they can especially if it was unexpected. If they do, grief therapy and sometimes antidepressants can be used to help them cope with the loss.

On occasion: Every parson is different and treatment depends on their mood prior to the amputation and their adjustment to the situation afterwards. Not everyone gets depressed but everyone goes they an adjustment time just as grieving. Treatment without medications is usually preferred. If the normal adjustment does not resolve antidepressants can be used.