Scientists: Antidepressants Barely Better Than Nothing For Young Patients
The researchers say the quality of evidence about antidepressants and young people is so bad that there's no way to tell if any of them are safe or effective.
The Associated Press:
Study: Most Antidepressants Don't Work For Young Patients
Scientists say most antidepressants don't work for children or teenagers with major depression, some may be unsafe, and the quality of evidence about these drugs is so bad the researchers cannot be sure if any are truly effective or safe. In the biggest analysis yet conducted of previously published studies, researchers studied 14 antidepressants and found only one drug that seemed to be useful. (Cheng, 6/9)
Stat:
Most Antidepressants Don’t Work On Kids And Teens, Study Finds
The vast majority of antidepressants given to kids and teens are ineffective and potentially dangerous, according to a new study in The Lancet. Of 14 regularly prescribed drugs, only one — Prozac — proved effective enough to justify giving to children and teens, the researchers found. (Weintraub, 6/8)
CBS News:
Most Antidepressants Ineffective In Teens, Study Finds
Most antidepressants on the market are ineffective for children and teens with major depressive disorder, and some may be unsafe for young patients, according to new research published in The Lancet. The findings show that out of 14 antidepressants, only fluoxetine (sold under brand names Prozac and Sarafem) was more effective at relieving symptoms of depression in young people than a placebo pill. In contrast, taking venlafaxine (Effexor) was associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts when compared to a placebo and five other antidepressants. (Welch, 6/9)