GlaxoSmithkline, the makers of the antidepressant, Paxil, have warned that the drug may raise the risk of suicide attempts in people under 30. Glaxo has sent a letter to doctors stating this.
According to a clinical trial, of 3,455 people taking Paxil 11 tried to kill themselves. Among the placebo group of 1,978 people, 1 tried to commit suicide. The majority of suicide attempts were made by patients under 30. One of the Paxil patients who attempted suicide succeeded.
Mary Anne Rhyne, who works for Glaxo, said the company is advising doctors to monitor all patients to make sure their symptoms don’t worsen while they are taking Paxil.
The FDA says doctors and patients should follow current advice. The agency is still analysing the results of the trial.
A spokesman for the FDA said it is important that patients on Paxil do not suddenly stop taking their medication without first consulting with their doctors.
Written by: Christian Nordqvist
Editor: Medical News Today