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A member asked:
Why do people think/say that ssri's can cause people to go crazy? i know it can cause mania in bipolar patients, but in gen pop are they very safe?
5 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
SSRIs are safe: Complex answer: possibly because a) they affect mood, and some experience agitation/mood related side effects, 2) there is increased risk of suicide in depressed patients who start SSRIs, in particular adolescents. In general they are safe and are first line medication for anxiety and depression. Antidepressants are the most commonly prescribed drug in the U.S., with SSRIs leading the way.
Answered 7/12/2015
2.6k views
SSRIs: Yes, overall they are quite safe. If you are having bad mood symptoms please talk to a Psychologist or Psychiatrist for a thorough evaluation. Any time a doctor starts someone on medication they will want to follow up to make sure that you are getting the desired effect. SSRIs don't make people "go crazy" though. They also don't change your personality. A good med effect can be life changing!
Answered 7/13/2015
2.6k views
Yes: I have no idea why people think that SSRI's can cause people to go crazy. You are correct that any antidepressant may precipitate a manic episode in people with bipolar disorder, so maybe that is the reason. I would never prescribe any medication if the person is not ill, but yes, in general, antidepressants are very safe and effective medicines.
Answered 7/14/2015
2.6k views
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