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A Food and Drug Administration (FDA) scientist who found
that antidepressants may increase the risk of suicidal behaviors
in children has been prohibited from making his findings public.
He was asked by the FDA to write up a safety analysis about
children taking the antidepressants Paxil, Effexor and others
after reports of high rates of suicidal behavior among children
taking such drugs surfaced early in 2003.
During his analysis he reviewed 20 clinical trialsinvolving
more than 4,000 children and eight different antidepressants.
In his written report, and according to two FDA sources who
have read the contents, he concluded that there was a definite
link between children who took antidepressants and suicidal
behavior.
After learning of this finding, the FDA informed the scientist
that he would not be presenting his analysis, saying it was
not "finalized," but he would instead present reports
received by the agency from doctors and professionals. Critics
fear that the FDA’s action means they are not willing
to take stronger measures against the antidepressants despite
the possible effects on children. The FDA says there is a
possibility that the scientist’s report may eventually
be completed and made public.
According to a 2003 study in the Archives of Pediatric and
Adolescent Medicine, the use of antidepressants among children
has more than tripled in recent years and soon the use of
these drugs will reach adult usage rates.
San
Francisco Gate February 1, 2004
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