AHRP Press Briefing: Scientists Will Analyze SSRI Data – Families Will Tell Their Tragedies

AHRP Press Briefing Scientists Will Analyze SSRI Data – Families Will Tell Their Tragedies THE ALLIANCE FOR HUMAN RESEARCH PROTECTION (AHRP) 142 West End Ave. Suite 28P New York, NY 10023 January 27, 2004 Contact: Vera Hassner Sharav President, AHRP Tel. No: 212-595-8974 E-mail: Contact: Lisa Van Syckel Family Liaison…

AHRP Press Briefing: Scientists Will Analyze SSRI Data, Families Will Tell Their Tragedies

Excerpt: The British drug authority has banned the use of most SSRI antidepressant drugs for the treatment of depression in children under 18, citing a two-to-threefold increased risk of suicidal behavior and lack of evidence of a benefit for depressed children. Two SSRIs – Paxil and Effexor – are no longer recommended by their manufacturer for use in children. Prozac is no longer recommended by Eli Lilly for children in the U.K.

In contrast to the British medicines authority review of the evidence, the FDA has refused to allow independent scientists to present documented evidence related to these drugs’ hazards and their failure to demonstrate a benefit for depressed children.