Dr Ranj Singh appeared on BBC Morning Live on October 16 to issue a "reminder" to people in the UK taking antidepressants. Speaking to hosts Gethin Jones and Gaby Roslin, he said there was no need to be alarmed, but patients should be aware of two potential side effects.
His message was aimed largely at people prescribed SSRI antidepressants, including fluoxetine, sertraline and citalopram. The doctor explained: "Lots of people take antidepressants for various reasons. We know that they can be life-saving. But we also know that some of them potentially have significant side effects."
"This is just a reminder of that for a specific type of antidepressant called an SSRI. We're talking about medications like fluoxetine, sertraline and citalopram."
What are SSRIs?
According to the NHS, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed type of antidepressant. It explains: "It's thought to work by increasing the level of serotonin (a chemical in the brain linked to mood). When serotonin levels are normal, this may reduce stress levels and negative thoughts."
Dr Ranj said that "two of the potential side-effects with these medications, particularly, are suicidal thoughts and sexual dysfunction, which can continue after you finish taking the medication."
He added: "It's just a reminder that people need to be aware of this and if you happen to be having any of these symptoms, please speak to a healthcare professional. You should not be making changes to your medication off your own back. Just be aware of it, doesn’t mean you’re going to get it, but if you do, please speak to someone."
Conditions treated by these medications
The NHS says medicines such as fluoxetine, sertraline and citalopram are used to treat a range of conditions. Citalopram is used to treat depression and panic disorder, while sertraline may be prescribed for depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and social anxiety disorder.
Fluoxetine is also a common medication and can be used to treat health conditions such as depression, bulimia and OCD. It can sometimes be used for menopause symptoms.
New safety measures from the UK Government
The UK Government issued a release on this issue. In an update on October 15, it wrote that "new safety measures are now being implemented to improve how the risks of suicidal thoughts and behaviours and persistent sexual dysfunction are communicated to patients taking antidepressant medications."
In advice published by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, it listed guidance aimed at healthcare professionals. It notes that the professionals should tell concerned patients that if they have "new or worsening suicidal thoughts, particularly when starting or changing the dose of antidepressants, seek urgent medical attention."
It adds that patients can call NHS 111 or speak to their local mental health crisis team, contact the Samaritans on 116 123, or text "SHOUT" to 85258. More information and support options are also available on the NHS website.
The summary reads: "New safety measures are now being implemented for all patients taking antidepressant medications. This follows completion of a detailed review, involving patients and their families, into how the risks of suicidal thoughts and behaviours, and persistent sexual dysfunction are communicated in the patient information leaflets (PILs) that accompany antidepressant medications."
"These changes involve a new boxed warning in the PIL, a new patient card, and a supporting safety (ancillary) leaflet. The term post SSRI sexual dysfunction (“PSSD”) is also being added to the PIL for some antidepressant medications."
