Articles
Antidepressants for children and teens
Content
Why do antidepressants have warnings about suicidal behavior in children?
Which antidepressants must have the warnings about suicide?
How can medication meant to help treat depression and other illnesses lead to suicidal behavior in children?
Should children be treated with antidepressants at all?
What should you do before your child starts taking an antidepressant?
Which antidepressants can children take?
What should you do once your child starts taking an antidepressant?
What warning signs should you watch for when your child is taking antidepressants?
What other treatment options are available for children with depression?
How can medication meant to help treat depression and other illnesses lead to suicidal behavior in children?
Because of the risk of suicide from depression, it's difficult to establish a clear causal relationship between antidepressant use and suicide. Researchers speculate about a variety of potential reasons for an increased risk. In some children, antidepressants may also trigger anxiety, agitation, hostility, restlessness or impulsive behavior. These effects may indicate that the child's depression is getting worse or that the child is starting to develop suicidal thoughts.
