Fluoxetine and Suicide Rates: Author's Reply
Author Information
Author(s): Camargo Carlos A, Bloch Daniel A
Primary Institution: Stanford University School of Medicine
Conclusion
The authors argue that the decrease in suicide rates from 1988 to 2002 is more likely due to economic factors rather than increased fluoxetine prescriptions.
Supporting Evidence
- The Spearman correlation coefficient between fluoxetine prescriptions and suicide rates was −0.92.
- The unemployment rate had a strong positive correlation with the suicide rate: r = 0.62, p = 0.014.
- The percentage of the US population eligible for the Food Stamp Program had a correlation of r = 0.84, p = 0.0002 with suicide rates.
- The Dow Jones industrial average had a negative correlation of r = −0.98, p < 0.0001 with suicide rates.
Takeaway
The study suggests that just because more fluoxetine was prescribed, it doesn't mean it caused fewer suicides; other factors like the economy played a big role.
Methodology
The authors analyzed correlations between fluoxetine prescriptions, suicide rates, and economic indicators using Spearman correlation coefficients.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the lack of analysis on confounding variables affecting suicide rates.
Limitations
The study does not account for confounding factors and lacks data on prescription demographics.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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