Websites May Contain Incorrect Info on Antidepressants

Researchers reviewed articles from 39 informative websites from ten countries on the topic of antidepressant use and found that thirteen sites failed to note that antidepressant use may increase suicide ideation, only two reported that antidepressants can increase suicide risk, eleven did not warn patients of withdrawal effects, only five mentioned emotional numbing as a side effect of antidepressant use, and only one suggested that antidepressants can be addictive. The authors conclude, “The information was generally inaccurate and unhelpful and has potential to lead to inappropriate use and overuse of antidepressants and reduce the likelihood that people will seek better options for depression like psychotherapy.” International Journal of Risk & Safety in Medicine, March 2020