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Antidepressant medication and suicide in Sweden
A Carlsten1, M Waern, A Ekedahl
1Department of Social Medicine, University of Göteborg, Sweden. anders.carlsten@telia.com
Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety
|February 7, 2002
Summary
The introduction of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in Sweden was associated with a significant decrease in suicide rates for men and women. This decline in suicides preceded the widespread increase in antidepressant sales.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Antidepressant use has increased globally.
- The relationship between antidepressant availability and suicide rates requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the temporal association between antidepressant sales and suicide rates in Sweden.
- To analyze changes in suicide rates across different age groups following the introduction of SSRIs.
Main Methods:
- Time series analysis was employed to compare suicide rates before and after the introduction of SSRIs.
- A two-slope model was utilized to assess changes in suicide rates.
Main Results:
- Antidepressant sales significantly increased from 1977-1979 to 1995-1997.
- Suicide rates decreased in both men and women during the study period.
- A statistically significant decrease in suicide rates was observed after SSRI introduction, corresponding to approximately 348 fewer suicides.
Conclusions:
- The introduction of SSRI antidepressants in Sweden coincided with a significant decrease in suicide rates.
- This reduction in suicides occurred before the substantial rise in antidepressant sales, suggesting a potential early impact of SSRIs.