Anti-depressants’ effects must be known

In your excellent coverage of the recent comments by former deputy state pathologist Dr Gilsenan of a connection between anti-depressants and an increased risk of suicide, The College of Psychiatry of Ireland states “... there is no evidence anti-depressants can cause harm”.

It might be good if the college consults the information supplied by the pharmaceutical company which manufactures Prozac, a commonly prescribed antidepressant. It is clearly stated that Prozac can cause agitation, panic attacks, aggressiveness, impulsiveness, irritability, hostility as well as suicidal thoughts or attempts.

As a minimum, it is important that anyone prescribed an anti-depressant should be fully informed of possible adverse effects, it should only be prescribed as part of a recovery plan with appropriate psychological support and people must be monitored regularly.