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FDA Black Box Warning for Antidepressants

Last week the FDA reviewed the data and decided to issue a black box warning on serotonin reuptake inhibitors, the most commonly used antidepressants. The warning is an increase in thoughts of suicide when first starting the drug. Such a warning already exists for use in children, but now the warning has been extended to 18 to 25 year olds.

The data shows that after age 25, the drugs do not cause an increase in suicidal thoughts. This can be very scary information for young adult who are considering medication, or are already on it. This may also be frightening for parents who are trying to make decisions for their children, which is why I want to clarify what this means. Major depression or true clinical depression carries a significant risk of suicide. In fact, the risk of suicide from untreated depression is greater than that from taking any of these medications. Adults and children who are suffering from depression should be evaluated by a psychiatrist and if it is moderate to severe they may likely require medication and if they do not get treated then they risk the depression worsening which in some cases does lead to suicide.

However, when anyone starts medication they should be closely supervised by a professional who can educate them about any side effects and symptoms they may notice, particularly suicidal thoughts. The professional should see them frequently in the early phase of treatment because of both their depression and the effects of the medication. Family should also be educated as to what to watch for or be concerned by, because when you are depressed your judgment likely becomes impaired and you may have difficulty seeing what the problem is.

Certainly it is important to know about this FDA warning and medication should never be treated lightly, but the fact is that antidepressants save lives and should be used when someone is having severe depression. If you have any questions about depression or medication, see a psychiatrist or psychopharmocologist for an evaluation. If a depression is mild to moderate, psychotherapy may be the best treatment. Studies show that medication combined with psychotherapy is more effective than medication alone, so if medication is being considered then discuss having psychotherapy as well.

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10 Comments

tired said:

I don't know what to do... I have been living a life that is primary "caregiver"
I have a sick husband,who keeps things from me,he's a double amputee,who has no license to drive ,but insist to do so...he spends more time with his friends than at home. he can do some things,around the house but doesn't. The kids we have (3) are his relatives kids.He's in and out of the hospital due to his condition almost 1 or 2 times a month...When he's there he expects me to come by shave and take care of him...he gets osme financial help, but he only takes care of one household bill which in most case is turned off because he doesnot honor pay schedule. I have gotten to the point where I don't care any more..I have started to drink, a glass of wine every nite.I work and would like to start school..what can I do,my house needs repairs badly.I feel guilty most of the time because of not being close to God and by debt situation,please help!.I have no social life,no friends,no one to talk to.I have to be stong for the
kids.

January 7, 2007 12:53 PM

tired said:

January 7, 2007 12:53 PM

sylvia said:

I really feel bad for you.I think its time for you to get a life, except for the kids ,it does not seem as if there is much in this situation for you,you deserve to be happy and educated,seems this man would be ok without you.

January 16, 2007 2:06 PM

Carol said:

I hope the best for you at this time in your life, go into nursing, a 1 year full time program, Just do it!!! Dont think about it , do not ask for approval from him, you will know what to do when you get there. Bury your mind in education, Quick , and you will make enough to support you and the kids. Also, You can eventually go and take care of patients on the side. You can make your own hours and take care of "this man, if you choose too" Good luck!! from the heart , truly Carol G

January 20, 2007 1:21 AM

System Pharmacy said:

The American Association for Health Education serves health educators and other professionals who promote the health of all people. WBR LeoP

January 21, 2007 8:39 PM

Marina said:

The diet does not lead to health and cannot result in it because at present there is no still a worthy not medicamentous program on loss of weight. WBR LeoP

January 31, 2007 8:44 PM

gail said:

hey you got my name do you have msn? if you do can you add me at schoolrocksx2@hotmail.com

March 16, 2007 12:51 PM

Drugstore said:

What do you do if the medication just isn't helping enough? Like it did before. WBR LeoP

March 19, 2007 7:52 AM

CVS Pharmacy said:

All medications have side effects. Even taking too many Naturopathic vitamins or drinking too much water results in death. WBR LeoP

March 26, 2007 7:29 PM

Bruce said:

Just some small advice: