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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?

Why do antidepressants have warnings about suicidal behavior in children?

The FDA reported that an extensive analysis of clinical trials showed that antidepressants may cause or worsen suicidal thinking or behavior in a small number of children and teens. The analysis showed that children and teens taking antidepressants had a small increase in suicidal thoughts, compared with those taking a sugar pill (placebo).

None of the children in any of the studies actually took his or her own life. Still, the FDA considered the findings concerning enough to issue a public health advisory and require manufacturers to label antidepressants with strong warnings about the link to suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents and young adults under 25.

However, not all mental health researchers believe these warnings are necessary. Newer research indicates that the benefits of antidepressants may be greater than the risk of suicide. And some research indicates that suicide rates in children decrease when they take antidepressants.

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