Antidepressants and suicide risk
Antidepressants and suicide risk
Antidepressants and suicide risk is a topic of ongoing research and debate in the field of psychiatry and pharmacology. The relationship between the use of antidepressant medication and the increased risk of suicide in certain individuals is complex and multifaceted.
Pronunciation
- Antidepressants: /ˌæntɪdɪˈprɛsənts/
- Suicide: /ˈsuːɪsaɪd/
Etymology
- Antidepressants: The term "antidepressant" is derived from the Latin prefix "anti-" meaning "against" and the word "depressant" which is derived from the Latin "deprimere" meaning "to press down".
- Suicide: The term "suicide" comes from the Latin "sui" meaning "of oneself" and "caedere" meaning "to kill".
Definition
Antidepressants are a class of drugs that are used to treat depression and other mental health disorders. They work by balancing chemicals in the brain that affect mood and emotions.
Suicide risk refers to the likelihood of an individual taking their own life. It is a complex issue that can be influenced by a variety of factors, including mental health conditions, substance abuse, and certain life events.
Relationship between Antidepressants and Suicide Risk
The relationship between antidepressants and suicide risk is complex. Some research suggests that antidepressants may increase suicide risk in some people, particularly in the first few weeks of treatment. However, other studies have found that antidepressants may actually decrease suicide risk by effectively treating depression.
Related Terms
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): A type of antidepressant that works by increasing levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps maintain mental balance.
- Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs): Another type of antidepressant that works by increasing levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters that help maintain mental balance.
- Black Box Warning: A type of warning that appears on the package insert for prescription drugs that may cause serious adverse effects. In 2004, the FDA required a black box warning for all antidepressants due to the potential increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Antidepressants and suicide risk
- Wikipedia's article - Antidepressants and suicide risk
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