Suicide refers to the intention to end one's own life, and MedlinePlus states that it is the 11th most common cause of death in the United States. Suicide can stem from severe depression or a major life catastrophe. In some unfortunate cases, prescription medications can lead to suicidal side effects.
Antidepressant Medications
Antidepressant medications, such as paroxetine, increase the chances for developing suicidal thoughts. According to MedlinePlus, paroxetine belongs to the set of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Specifically, it increases serotonin, a chemical found in the brain.
MedlinePlus says that some children, teenagers and adults up to 24 years old can develop suicidal thoughts. Paroxetine can also worsen depression and lead to restlessness, aggression and worry. This drug's other effects include a headache, dizziness, diarrhea, constipation, sweating and dry mouth. Paroxetine's serious side effects include seizures, trouble breathing, chest pain and seizures.
Paroxetine can be taken as a tablet, liquid or a controlled-release tablet. This medicine is typically taken daily, either in the morning or night.
Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin is a medication used to treat severe acne. The National Library of Medicine says this drug can lead to suicidal thinking or attempts, depression, aggression and violent behavior. Isotretinoin's side effects include a pounding or fast heartbeat, nausea, bleeding of the gums, muscle pain, fainting and weakness.
The National Library of Medicine says isotretinoin can also cause serious birth defects in pregnant women. Specifically, it can cause malformations in the ears, eyes, face and palate.
Isotretinoin is a tablet, and its dosage is typically 0.5 to 1.0mg per kilogram of your body weight each day. This drug is typically taken for 15 to 20 weeks.
Anticonvulsant Medications
The National Library of Medicine says phenytoin is a medication used to treat seizures. Anticonvulsant medications, such as phenytoin, also can cause suicidal side effects. Its other effects include slurred speech, confusion, dizziness, trouble sleeping and headaches. Phenytoin can also cause constipation, nausea, vomiting and liver damage.
The typical dose for phenytoin is 100mg three times a day.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is a medication used to treat the hyperactivity and impulsiveness in children suffering with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). MedlinePlus says this medication may lead to suicidal thoughts or behaviors, depression, agitation, panic attacks and aggressiveness, especially when the dose is adjusted.
Atomoxetine's typical side effects may include heartburn, a poor appetite, muscle pain, sweating, dizziness, a headache, constipation and muscle pain. Some of atomoxetine's serious side effects include chest pain, shortness of breath, trouble breathing or swallowing, hallucinations and slow speech.
Atomoxetine is a capsule typically taken one or two times a day.
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