Outside the Black Box: Re-assessing Pediatric Antidepressant Prescription.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this review is to assess whether evidence supports a favorable risk/benefit profile for pediatric antidepressant use and reconsideration of the black box.

METHODS

The review examines studies post-black box purporting to show declines in pediatric antidepressant use and rising youth suicide, summarizes evidence for efficacy and safety of pediatric antidepressants, and discusses irregularities in recent meta-analyses of fluoxetine for youth.

RESULTS

Pediatric antidepressant prescription did not significantly decline post-black box and youth suicide has risen only in recent years. Recent meta-analyses fail to undermine evidence that antidepressants are associated with increased risk of suicidality in youth.

CONCLUSIONS

First line prescription of antidepressants for youth is not advisable. The black box and international warnings on pediatric use of antidepressants are warranted. Wider availability of psychosocial options for depressed youth is recommended.