anti-depressants
A warning has been sounded about the possible suicidal side effects of commonly used anti-depressant drugs.
Researchers analysed the results of 16 trials involving the drug paroxetine (Seroxat) - one in a class of drugs known as Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) - used by adult patients.
Experts have already warned that the drug is not suitable for children and adolescents due to an increased risk of suicidal thoughts.
Now the latest study, published in the journal BMC Medicine, suggests that these warnings should also be extended to adults.
But GlaxoSmithKline, makers of Seroxat, said it own extensive research showed that the benefits of using the medication outweighed the risks.
In 2003, around 19 million prescriptions for SSRIs were handed out in England for the treatment of depression and anxiety.