Selective+Serotonin+Reuptake+Inhibitors+and+Risk+of+Suicide.+A+Systematic+Review+of+Observational+Studies

Corrado, a psychiatry professor at the University of Verona, and her team of researchers reviewed information comparing suicidality between younger and older patients who were exposed to Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). The results of the information show that increased suicide risks from SSRIs have a correlation with age. Adolescents and teenagers were compared to middle-aged and elderly people under antidepressant treatment. Younger patients were found to be twice as likely to commit suicide, whereas adult and senior suicide rates decreased by approximately 50% each. Results of the experiment suggest imply that SSRIs are relatively safe and effective when given to grown adults, but potentially dangerous when given to adolescents. Prior to this publication, little insight existed regarding any correlation between the use of SSRIs and agitated suicidal behavior. The impact that Corrado and her colleagues have on my argument is remarkably large. Not only is there evidence that suicide rates have stayed constant while depression has drastically increased, but there is also evidence that exposing an adolescent adult to antidepressants actually increases his chance of committing suicide. This sets the grounds for a strong thesis regarding antidepressants having a possible link to increased suicide risks of both teenagers and young adults. With this basis, further research is necessary to look for possible explanations.

Barbui, Corrado., et al. “Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and Risk of Suicide: A Systematic Review of Observational Studies.” Canadian Medical Association Journal 180.3 (2009): 291-97. Print.