Articles
Atypical antidepressants
Content
How atypical antidepressants work
Atypical antidepressants approved by the FDA
Possible side effects of atypical antidepressants
Safety issues
Suicide risk and antidepressants
Stopping treatment with atypical antidepressants
Finding the right antidepressant
Suicide risk and antidepressants
Most antidepressants are generally safe, but the FDA requires that all antidepressants carry black box warnings, the strictest warnings for prescriptions. In some cases, children, teenagers and young adults under 25 may have an increase in suicidal thoughts or behavior when taking antidepressants, especially in the first few weeks after starting or when the dose is changed.
Anyone taking an antidepressant should be watched closely for worsening depression or unusual behavior. If you or someone you know has suicidal thoughts when taking an antidepressant, immediately contact your doctor or get emergency help.
Keep in mind that antidepressants are more likely to reduce suicide risk in the long run by improving mood.