FDA Calls for Suicide Warning on Antidepressants

FDA Calls for Suicide Warning on Antidepressants
March 23, 2004

News Summary

Warning that some popular antidepressants may be linked to suicides, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is calling on drug makers to add a new warning to antidepressant labels, the Associated Press reported March 22.

Studies have not confirmed that the drugs actually lead to suicide; however, the FDA said stronger caution language should be added to labels for adults and children using antidepressants to treat depression.

The FDA also issued a public-health advisory for doctors, patients, families, and other caregivers to be aware of growing signs of depression or suicidal thoughts at the onset of antidepressant therapy or whenever the dosage is changed.

Among the drugs included in the warning are Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft, Effexor, Celexa, Remeron, Lexapro, Luvox, Serzone, and Wellbutrin.

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