WARNING: The use of antidepressants among children may cause suicidal thoughts and feelings.
On Friday, October 15, 2004 the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a statement informing the public that certain antidepressant medications prescribed to children suffering with depression and other psychiatric problems may cause an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and feelings. These drugs may cause the very problems they are in theory designed to treat.
Recent studies regarding the side effects of antidepressant medications among children and adolescents revealed a 4% greater chance of suicidal behavior compared to patients taking a placebo only.
Young patients face the greatest risk during their first few months on the medication. They should be closely monitored by parents, as well as doctors. If your child is currently taking antidepressants, and exhibiting any of the following characteristics (which have been provided by the FDA) your child may be at risk:
- Agitation
- Irritability
- Suicidality (suicidal thoughts, feelings, and behavior)
- Unusual changes in behavior
You should discuss the situation with your child’s doctor immediately.
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The following medications now carry a “black box” warning identifying suicidal feelings as a potential side effect in children:
- Anafranil
- Aventyl
- Celexa
- Cymbalta
- Desyrel
- Effexor
- Elavil
- Lexapro
- Ludiomil
- Luvox
- Marplan
- Nardil
- Norpramin
- Pamelor
- Parnate
- Paxil
- Pexeva
- Prozac
- Remeron
- Sarafem
- Serzone
- Sinequan
- Surmontil
- Symbyax
- Tofranil
- Tofranil-PM
- Triavil
- Vivactil
- Wellbutrin
- Zoloft
- Zyban
Approximately 2.5% of the children in America have some form of depression. Many take medication for the disorder. Parents, physicians, the general public, and the children themselves should be made aware of the risks associated with this treatment.
If your child is suffering from depression or other psychiatric disorders, please discuss the potential side effects of all suggested medications with the prescribing doctor. Do not make a decision to medicate your child until you are fully informed.
The Bernard Law Group has years of experience assisting injured clients including those suffering from pharmaceutical side effects and drug-related legal matters. Our skilled team will investigate the facts, assess your claim, and compose and present your case.
If your child has committed or attempted suicide while taking any of the antidepressant medication listed above, please consult with one of our drug injury attorneys to discuss your case.
