FDA Warns About Suicide Risk On Anticonvulsants

Anticonvulsants, also known as antiepileptic drugs, are an important part of seizure management. Although anti-seizure medications greatly improve the quality of life of many people suffering from epilepsy, they also have side effects associated with them. After a thorough investigation, scientists working for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have found people taking anticonvulsants are twice as likely to suffer from suicidal thoughts than those taking placebos, or pills containing no medication. In fact, these scientists were proposing to place a "black box" warning on these drugs. A black box warning, referred to as such because of the black box surrounding the warning, is located in a drug package insert and warns others about any serious adverse effects that could occur while taking the drug.

On Thursday, the FDA voted against placing a black box warning on these medications. However, they did agree on the distribution of medication guides to healthcare providers, outlining the risks of antiepileptic medications and suicidal thoughts.