SSRI impact on growth

[hodgieman]

Hi-
I took large doses of SSRIs (under medical supervision) when I was in my late teens (19-20).
This include 80mg of Prozac, plus other SSRIs at the same time that included Zoloft and Paxil.
Is there any consensus or clear evidence that SSRIs may have impacted my physical bone growth?
Thank you.
HodgieMan

[hodgieman]

Thank you, Doctor.
Yes, I heard of similar studies. Seems like evidence points to decreased bone density versus actual length of bones. Not sure if I'm accurate here.
I was on the SSRIs at about 19 years of ago, for about a year and half.
My son is in a similar spot in his life and doctor has prescribed. I think he has stopped growing as well.
Best,
Todd

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Although there have been a few studies indicating the chronic use of SSRI’s may be associated with decreased bone growth, there are yet to b proved beyond doubt in humans. The effects have been observed to be more prominent in children and in early teens. If the medications were medically indicated and taken under medical supervision for limited period of time, these are unlikely to have affected growth, especially after late teens.
Hope this information is helpful.

Take care!