Solving the Antidepressant Paradox

Studies have shown that two genes involved in the brain's chemical signaling may explain the reason why some adolescents and children have had increased tendencies of suicide while taking antidepressant medications. Because of this research, the British government has banned the use of certain antidepressants called selective seratonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and the US FDA has deemed it necessary to include a warning with the medications.

A study was conducted to show how these SSRIs cause suicidal thoughts in some people. A group of researchers looked at 68 genes in 1915 adults who had severe depression and who were also taking SSRIs. They found that there are two genes, GRIA3 and GRIK2, that are linked with suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Apparently, small differences in these strands of DNA are all that distinguish those who have suicidal thoughts from those who do not while taking the drug.

These findings show that the reaction to antidepressants could be in our genes from birth. This has given researchers new ideas for finding better treatments for depression. In the future, it may be possible to test a patient's DNA in order to find the right treatment for his or her specific genetics.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20992619/