Suicidal thoughts the first week on antidepressants

[melbatoast64]

Does anyone know why antidepressants increase suicidal thoughts in people under 24 for the first week?

[Hensley258]

I have heard of this side effect. I can't relate because I wanted to kill myself before I started taking AD medication. It never once made me feel like killing myself, but my untreated depression sure did.

I guess in some people these meds can have some freaky side effects.

[melbatoast64]

Thank you for the concern. I did have worsening symptoms the first week on Wellbutrin, not Lexapro though. I am fine now. I am just curious as to how something that is supposed to make you better potentially makes you worst initially.

[SarahB79]

Its a very dangerous side effect that usually onsets at the beginning of treatment.  I don't think it goes away, it jsut gets worse.  You should notifiy your dr. immediately that your depression has deepened and you are having these thoughts.  They will find you something else to take or alternative treatment.  

Do me a favor. Don't take any medications without first researching them for side effects and interactions.  They are serious things and you need to understand what they could potentially do to you.  

[ParamedFlorena]

What I've understood is that many antidepressants have a warning about suicide on them. This is maybe because they need some time to build up in our body?
Expectations to the pill given are high, but the good effect won't come around immediately?
This is at least what I think happens. That's why it is so important to have a closer dialogue with the prescriber through the first 6-8 weeks of the treatment.

Florena