FDA Warns of Suicidality Link to Antiepileptic Meds
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning about an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors (suicidality) in patients who take drugs called antiepileptics to treat epilepsy, bipolar disorder, migraine headaches, and other conditions. The drugs that are subject to the warning include Depakote, Topamax, and Neurontin. FDA analysis of recent studies showed patients taking antiepileptics had about twice the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, compared with patients receiving placebo. FDA advises patients who are currently taking antiepileptic medicines to make no changes without first talking to their health care provider.