None of the studies noted improvements in mental health care or declines in suicide attempts or deaths after the warnings were implemented. While an increase in antidepressant use occurred before the FDA advisory, there were abrupt and sustained declines in use — ranging from 20% to 50% — after the warnings. Three studies reported increases in psychotropic drug poisonings, which suggest suicide attempts, and in suicide deaths among children. However, “the study convincingly suggests that the Black Box warning may have made at least some providers and families anxious about treating adolescents with antidepressants,” Fortuna said. Every young person differs in the level of risk, needs and circumstances, Fortuna said, and antidepressants can be lifesaving.

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Persons: ”, Stephen Soumerai, ” Soumerai, suicidality, Lisa R, Fortuna wasn’t, Fortuna, ” Fortuna, . Kao, Ping Chua, Susan B, Chua wasn’t, ” Chua, Chua, “, ” Young Organizations: Lifeline, CNN, Food and Drug Administration, Health Affairs, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Harvard Medical School, FDA, Children, American Psychiatric Association, National Institute of Mental Health, University of California, Research Center, University of Michigan Medical Locations: Massachusetts, United States, Riverside, pediatricians