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By now you've probably heard that the FDA warned that depressors
on certain anti-depressants should be monitored closely for
warning signs of suicide. This came after a teenager committed
suicide while on antidepressants and after a study involving
4,000 subjects showed that 2% to 4% of children and teens who
were given anti-depressants for the treatment of depression
became suicidal, that is they had suicidal thoughts, or made
suicidal attempts of one kind or another.
This prompt FDA to put a "black box" label you will now find on
those drugs. The "black label" is the highest warning that the
FDA would put on a label. The new labels would apply to both
pediatric and adult usage of bupropion (Wellbutrin), citalopram
(Celexa), fluoxetine (Prozac), fluvoxamine (Luvox), mirtazapine
(Remeron), nefazodone (Serzone), paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline
(Zoloft), escitalopram (Lexapro), and venlafaxine (Effexor).
Most of these drugs belong to a class of anti-depressants known
as SSRIs or SSRI-like drugs which act through the brain chemical
serotonin; while Remeron, Serzone and Wellbutrin, operate
differently. The FDA however, confirmed that Prozac doesn't lead
to increased suicidal tendencies.
Some of the possible side effects of taking anti-depressants are
that some teens tend to get more aggressive, more hostile,
increased anxiety, insomnia and increase in suicidal thoughts.
So, what now? Should I take anti-depressants or not? Studies
show 15% of children and teens with depression who receive no
treatment will commit suicide. These 15% will not just think
about it, but will actually kill themselves.
The risk of not treating depression is much, much greater than
the possible side effects of treatment. However that doesn't
mean you should just go out and buy some of the shelf.
Anti-depressants should always be taken with the doctor's
prescription.
Ask your doctor what are the possible side effects you should
look out for. The doctor will most likely ask you to start with
low doses for a week or two. If you think you show any signs of
the side effects, consult your doctor IMMEDIATELY. Also,
remember that psychotherapy along with medication is the most
effective way of treating depression.
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