Millions of Americans take antidepressant medications on a daily basis, some for short periods of time, others for long periods.
This last year a change was made to the labels for antidepressant medications in terms of their use in children and teens. The label warns of a possible increase in suicidal thoughts and tendencies in youth who are on these types of medications.
Now, the most recent Food and Drug Administration panel discussed placing a warning for adults, especially those under the age of 25. A recent review by a FDA panel found that individuals in this age group who are taking some of the newer antidepressants are twice as likely to have suicidal thoughts or tendencies.
These findings have prompted many consumers to advocate for changes to the current labeling on drugs such as Paxil, Prozac, Cymbalta, Effexor, and Zoloft. Many of those pushing for the change have lost a loved one to suicide while they were being treated for depression with antidepressant medications.
While on the other side of the debate is the pharmaceutical industry and psychiatrists. The manufacturers of the medications say that their research has not shown such an increase in suicide or suicidal thoughts. And the psychiatrists suggest that suicidal thoughts and tendencies may increase if individuals are not given the medications to help treat their depression.
It is a heated debate indeed, with both sides wanting a similar outcome, less harm to the patients.
The FDA is expected to make a decision about the labeling in the near future.
Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on December 13, 2006 05:07 PM
