Antidepressants and the young – the risk-benefit ratio looks positive

[24 April 2007 - 09h28]

After reaching the end of a meta-analysis of 27 different studies, an American research team has confirmed that “the benefits of treating young people with antidepressants exceed the risks”. And the risk of suicide in particular, which is considered not to be “statistically significant”.

After warnings from European and French medicines agencies, doctors at the Columbus University in the United States confirm that there is an increased risk of “suicide and suicidal thoughts” among children and adolescents receiving antidepressant treatment. But, according to them, this is so slight that it does not present a challenge to the risk-benefit ratio of this medication.

The recommendations of the French Health Products Safety Agency (the AFSSaPS) are perfectly clear on the subject. The Agency stresses in fact that “the first-line treatment of depression in children and adolescents (relies on) a psychotherapeutic approach. The prescription of antidepressants, where envisaged, should only be a second-line treatment in the event of a major depression (…). Where antidepressants are prescribed, there must be close monitoring of the patient, including for indications of suicidal behaviour, particularly at the start of the treatment”.

Source : JAMA, 18 April 2007, AFSSAPS

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