Antidepressants and suicide: what is the balance of benefit and harm

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Abstract
Introduction Prescribing of antidepressants has increased greatly in England and elsewhere in recent years.1–3 This increase has coincided with a fall in rates of suicide, leading some researchers to suggest a causal association.2 4–6 Meanwhile, others are concerned that antidepressants may precipitate suicidal behaviour.7 8 A recent review of evidence from paediatric trials by the Committee on Safety of Medicines in Britain led to most selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) being contraindicated in people aged younger than 18.9 So how safe are they? In this article, we assess the data on the risks and benefits.