Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Adolescent Depression

What do you see as the major factors involved in the controversy with the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor used to treat adolescent depression?

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are antidepressant medications used to treat depression. SSRIs work by permitting serotonin to linger longer in the synapse (McGraw-Hill, 2011). However, some research shows that there is an increase of suicidal thoughts in children and adolescents when on SSRIs. In a review of pediatric trials involving 2200 children taking SSRIs, 4% had suicidal thoughts (Antidepressant Medications for Children and Adolescents: Information for Parents and Caregivers, 2012). This was two times more than the ones taking placebos. It was also noted that none of the children had attempted suicide. Another side effect of SSRIs is agitation, which is not always a good effect for adolescents. Between the suicidal thoughts and the possible agitation in adolescents, I can see why there is some controversy over prescribing SSRIs to adolescents and even children. Because of the research conducted, the FDA has approved only Fluoxetine (Prozac) for the treatment of children ages 8 to 17. Additionally, Escitalopram (Lexapro) has been approved for adolescents over the age of 12.

Antidepressant Medications for Children and Adolescents: Information for Parents and Caregivers. (2012). Retrieved August 18, 2012, from National Institute of Mental Health: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/child-and-adolescent-mental-health/antidepressant-medications-for-children-and-adolescents-information-for-parents-and-caregivers.shtml

McGraw-Hill. (2011). Psychsmart. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.

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