The FDA has acknowledged the link between antidepressants and the increased risk of suicide in
children, adolescents and adults are also at risk for suicidal thoughts and actions while taking
SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) antidepressants.

In 2004 the FDA acknowledged the suicide/antidepressant link with children and now requires "Black
Box" labeling to alert parents of the harm that can befall their child while taking antidepressants.
That warning has now spread to all age groups. The FDA has now issued a Public Health Advisory (PHA)
calling for an update to health care providers and patients about the recent scientific research and
publications that there is an increased risk of suicidal thought and behaviors in adults taking
antidepressant medication.

The FDA, using a similar approach that was used in the evaluation of the risks of increased suicidal
thoughts and behaviors in their pediatric studies, requested that manufacturers of antidepressants
drugs provide doctors with information from their drug trials.

In accordance with the 2nd FDA warning the Public Health Advisory advises patients and health care
providers be aware of the following:

_ Close observation of adults may be especially important when antidepressant medications are
started for the first time or when doses for the specific drugs prescribed have been changed.

_ Adults being treated with antidepressant medicines, particularly those being treated for
depression, should be watched closely for worsening of depression and for increased suicidal
thinking or behavior.

_ Adults whose symptoms worsen while being treated with antidepressants, including an increase in
suicidal thinking or behavior, should be evaluated by their health care professional.

The above recommendations are also consistent with the existing warnings that are in the approved
labeling, or package insert, for antidepressant medications.

Antidepressants have their place but it is our belief that other options should be exercised before
resorting to the potentially dangerous drugs. There are many options in between the wide gap between
doing nothing and taking antidepressant medication. In dealing with depression, diet and exercise
changes are highly beneficial. Herbal and homeopathic remedies can also offer valuable help in the
battle against depression.

BIO:

Jeannine Virtue is a freelance writer who focuses on health related issues. For information about
effective and natural treatments for Attention Deficit Disorder and Depression in adults and
children, visit the Attention Deficit Disorder Help Center at http://www.add-adhd-help-center.com

Submitted by:

• Name: Jeannine Virtue
• Date: 03/07/06 at 16:22
• Email: jeannine.athens@verizon.net
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