In clinical studies, it did appear that there was a slightly increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior, called "suicidality," in children, adolescents, and young adults who took antidepressants, including Paxil CR. For example, about 4 percent of children, adolescents, and young adults taking an antidepressant had suicidal thoughts or behavior, compared to 2 percent who were not taking an antidepressant.
Not all age groups have an increased risk for suicidality. No increased risk was seen in people aged 25 to 65. People aged 65 and older given an antidepressant appeared to have a lower risk for suicidality than those not given an antidepressant.
The FDA-reviewed studies looked at all suicidal behavior, including suicides, attempted suicides, and thoughts about committing suicide. The term suicidality was used to describe any thought or behavior that seemed to be related to suicide. However, it is important to note that none of the children or adolescents in the study actually committed suicide.
It is difficult to know for sure if there is a relationship between the use of antidepressants, such as Paxil CR, and suicides or suicidal behavior. This is because depression (and other mental health problems antidepressants are used to treat) can cause suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The bottom line is that you should report any signs of suicidal thoughts, behaviors, or actions to your healthcare provider, regardless of whether or not you are taking an antidepressant.
Certain people seem to be at a higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior while taking antidepressants. This includes people with bipolar disorder (or a family history of bipolar disorder) and people who have attempted suicide (or have a family history of suicide attempts).
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