Depression is a common disorder in late life which can be successfully treated with antidepressant agents. Other disorders such as behavioural agitation associated with dementia may also be treated with antidepressants. In this review, we have examined the use of five serotonin-selective reuptake inhibitors in the treatment of late-life depression and related disorders in the elderly population. Medications examined include citalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, sertraline and paroxetine. Comparisons of these agents' efficacy in the elderly are made. In addition, comparisons of these agents' side effects, pharmacokinetics and potential for drug-drug interactions are also discussed.