Analysis of Suicide Risks Linked to Antidepressants
Author Information
Author(s): Daria Schetz, Anand Jacek Sein, Anand Łukasz Sein, Ivan Kocić
Primary Institution: Medical University of Gdańsk
Hypothesis
This study aims to assess the frequency of psychiatric adverse drug reactions, including suicide-related events, associated with commonly used antidepressants.
Conclusion
The study reveals significant patterns of psychiatric adverse drug reactions associated with antidepressants, highlighting the need for improved reporting and monitoring.
Supporting Evidence
- Psychiatric adverse drug reactions accounted for 33.9% to 38.2% of total reported ADRs for the studied antidepressants.
- Venlafaxine had the highest number of psychiatric ADRs reported.
- Completed suicides were most frequently reported with venlafaxine, citalopram, and fluoxetine.
- ADRs were reported more frequently in women, particularly for duloxetine and sertraline.
- Suicide attempts were most prevalent in patients aged 18–64, with notable incidence in the 0–17 age group.
Takeaway
Some antidepressants can make people feel worse, especially at first, and this study looks at how often that happens and how it can lead to serious problems like suicide.
Methodology
The study analyzed pharmacovigilance data from the EudraVigilance database from December 2001 to September 2024, focusing on six commonly used antidepressants.
Potential Biases
There is a risk of bias due to incomplete reporting and potential reluctance of healthcare professionals to report serious adverse reactions.
Limitations
The study faced limitations due to underreporting of adverse drug reactions and missing data on patient demographics and outcomes.
Participant Demographics
The study included data categorized by age and gender, with a notable focus on women and younger patients.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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