7 Healthcast: Prescription Warning

All told, millions of Americans take these ten anti-depressants in question. The FDA says that those people should be carefully monitored for signs of suicide.

They're among the most prescribed drugs in America. But could these anti-depressants actually make people feel worse? The FDA is investigating a possible link to suicide.

Dr. Andrew Neirenberg, MGH Depression Program
"It's very hard to know exactly what's going on."

The investigation was prompted by several cases of teen suicide.

Until there's an answer - the FDA wants new warning labels - and for doctors - like this MGH specialist - to closely monitor patients for signs of suicide risk.

Dr. Andrew Neirenberg, MGH Depression Program
"It is not clear that people would be having these thoughts because of the depression or the anti-depressants."

The drugs include: Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft, Effexor, Celexa, Remeron, Lexapro, Luvox, Serzone and Wellbutrin.

All affect the brain chemical serotonin. Remember - it's not confirmed these drugs actually increase suicide risk.

If you are one of the millions of Americans taking these drugs be more aware of your own thoughts and emotions and don't be afraid to share them openly with your doctor.

And don't be afraid of the drugs. They are still widely considered safe and effective.

Even with these data that suggest or at least question whether or not there's a link, the biggest danger is not treating depression.

The new warning applies to both adult and pediatric use - at the start of medication - and when there is a dosing change.

When starting treatment - many people often experience side effects before the benefits - which could make negative thoughts worse. And under no circumstances should you ever stop taking anti-depressants on your own - because the side effects could be sudden and severe.