Antidepressant-induced suicidality: an update

Evidence suggests that antidepressant treatment may in some cases result in worsening depression and increased risk of suicidality in pediatric and adolescent patients. The United States Food and Drug Administration requires that antidepressants carry a black box warning regarding such a risk in patients up to age 24. Many studies of antidepressant-induced suicidality among adults have also reported an increased risk, while several other investigations involving that population have not supported such a finding. This article provides an update of the controversy surrounding antidepressants as a potential cause of suicidal ideations or behavior. Antidepressant-induced suicidality appears to be an uncommon occurrence but also a legitimate phenomenon. Close monitoring and a follow-up care should be provided for patients after initiation of a new antidepressant.