Many drugs approved by the FDA & DEA have been linked to an increased risk of depression and suicidal thoughts or behavior.
Medication classes associated with these effects include:
•Antidepressants: A black box warning exists regarding an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults (under 25) during initial treatment or dosage changes. Examples include:
◦Citalopram (Celexa)
◦Escitalopram (Lexapro)
◦Fluoxetine (Prozac)
◦Paroxetine (Paxil)
◦Sertraline (Zoloft)
◦Venlafaxine (Effexor)
◦Mirtazapine (Remeron)
◦Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
•Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs): These medications also carry an FDA warning about an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Examples include:
◦Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
◦Lamotrigine (Lamictal)
◦Levetiracetam (Keppra)
◦Topiramate (Topamax)
◦Gabapentin (Neurontin)
◦Phenytoin (Dilantin)
•Other Medications:
◦Isotretinoin (Accutane): This medication, used for severe acne, has been linked to depression and suicidal thoughts, according to The Law Offices of Skip Simpson.
◦Varenicline (Chantix): A smoking cessation aid, has been associated with mood changes, agitation, and suicidal ideation, according to the Harmony Ridge Recovery Center.
◦Montelukast (Singulair): This medication carries a black box warning about serious mental health side effects, including suicidal thoughts and behaviors, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
◦Corticosteroids: These drugs, such as prednisone, can cause mood swings and depression with long-term use.
•Benzodiazepines: These drugs, widely prescribed for anxiety and sleep problems, are linked to depression, especially with higher doses or when combined with alcohol. They also have a black box warning about risks of misuse, addiction, dependence, and withdrawal. Examples include:
◦Alprazolam (Xanax)
◦Clonazepam (Klonopin)
◦Diazepam (Valium)
◦Lorazepam (Ativan)
•Opioid Pain Relievers: These drugs, including codeine, fentanyl, hydrocodone, morphine, and oxycodone, carry a black box warning about risks of misuse, addiction, dependence, and withdrawal. Long-term use can also be associated with depression and suicidal thoughts, according to the Harmony Ridge Recovery Center.
•DEA Scheduled Substances: Misuse of DEA Schedule I drugs can exacerbate existing mental health conditions like anxiety or depression and lead to the development of new disorders, including suicidal ideation, according to extraktLAB. Opioids and other drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, and amphetamines, have also been implicated in suicides, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Important considerations
•This list is not exhaustive, and other medications may also have these potential side effects.
•The risk of these side effects can vary depending on individual factors, dosage, and duration of treatment.
•The presence of a black box warning means that the drug has a significant risk of causing serious or even life-threatening adverse effects.
•Any concerns about depression or suicidal thoughts should be discussed with a doctor or healthcare provider, especially if you are taking any medication.
•If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, seek immediate professional help. Resources like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can provide support and guidance.