Thursday, October 14, 2004

Experts Urge Close Eye On Depression Drugs
AP story at InteliHealth - "Shauna Murphy thinks it's a smart idea to put warning labels on antidepressants. She has good reason. Nine years ago, at age 10, she was put on a particular brand of the medication and, shortly after, tried to kill herself. It's the kind of outcome that has prompted the Food and Drug Administration to begin work on writing "black box" warnings -- the strongest caution possible -- for young people who take antidepressants. Some parents have already taken their children off the drugs. But even with the troubles they've had, Murphy and her parents are not speaking out against antidepressants. Instead, they are among a number of families, doctors and mental health groups who -- worried the warning labels might stop some people from seeking treatment -- are taking the opportunity to encourage families to get help for young people with depression and other mental health issues..."