Citation

Naveed S, Urrutia V, Zeshan M, Akal H, Backman A, Malik S. Psychiatr. Ann. 2021; 51(10): 467-472.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, Healio)

DOI

10.3928/00485713-20210916-01

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Suicide is a global health problem. According to the World Health Organization, more than 700,000 people a year die because of suicide. About 90% of suicides in the United States are associated with a psychiatric illness, with major depressive disorder (MDD) accounting for 50% of these cases. Although antidepressants are the preferred choice for the treatment of MDD with or without suicidal ideations, they can cause worsening of suicidal ideations in some cases. In October 2004, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) directed manufacturers of all antidepressants to add a "black box" warning regarding possible worsening suicidal thoughts and behaviors in patients younger than age 18 years. In 2006, the FDA extended this warning to young adults up to age 24 years. Since then, there has been significant discussion regarding the warning, its merits and impact, and the implications on the use of antidepressants for the effective management of MDD. This article reviews the historical background of the black box warning, existing evidence, and recommendations on effectively communicating with children/adolescents and their caregivers. [Psychiatr Ann. 2021;51(10):467-472.]. © SLACK Incorporated.

Language: en