[Al B.]

They are being treated for DEPRESSION.

So were the people in these clinical trials who were taking placebo and their rate of suicide was HALF that of those taking antidepressants according to the reports.

Some folks -- even in the FDA -- actually understand what this debate is about. You obviously don't.

[rmlew]

I fully understand the various testing groups and use of placebos. That said, it is important to take into account what groups we are dealing with.

Changing levels of Seritonin is difficult. Increasing levels of seratonin is not a panacea. Aside from the general side effects, it certainly affects individuals differently. Neuroligical physiology, chemistry, and the behaviors and emotions of a person are linked in very complex ways. Inhibiting the reuptake of seratonin may well affect other neurotransmiters. We are dealing with an extremely complex system.

I have no doubt that suicidal thoughts are a side effect of SSRI's. Ditto for mania, sleeplessness, increased libido, deacreased libido, sleepiness, sleeplessness, headaches, amelioration of physiological pain, increased and decreased apetite...
Depression is a complex series of conditions and should be treated with behavioral therapy and medication. Some GP's seem to prescribe almost any drug asked for by patients or their guardians. This irresponsible behavior is facilitated by HMO's, wishing to prevent expensive counciling, and by schools who seek to control students. Clearly this has led to or facilited many suicide attempts and deaths. To simply blame the drugs is an oversimplification.