Brookhaven Hospital: Mental Health Treatment for Behavioral Health Problems, Chemical Dependency, Eating Disorders, Brain Injuries, and Renewal Christian Treatment and Recovery

Monday, October 10, 2005 9:29 AM
posted by Michael Mason

Anticonvulsants: Is Suicide a Side-Effect?

People with seizures, especially epileptics, are more prone to depression than the general population, but now the very medications that help control their seizures have become suspect.

Neurontin and Lamictal are widely used in the treatment of various conditions and are perceived to be very effective, but they may carry a strong side-effect: suicidality.

Several months ago, the FDA gave pharmaceutical companies that manufacture anticonvulsants a request: find out if your drug increases the risk of suicide. The government asked the industry to report back in six month's time.

So far, we have yet to hear from the drug companies' report; nevertheless, it is important to remain diligently aware that there may be a risk. If you are taking a convulsant and find yourself struggling with suicidal thoughts or a depression, please contact a mental health professional immmediately.

Click here to read "Anticonvulsants and Suicide Risk?"
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Rolf B. Gainer, Ph.D., Diplomate ABDA, is the Chief Executive Office at Brookhaven Hospital and the Vice President of Rehabilitation Institutes of America. Dr. Gainer has been involved in the design and operation of treatment programs since 1977.

Stephen Harnish, MD is the Medical Director of Brookhaven Hospital. Dr. Harnish is a member of the American Psychiatric Association and is well known in Oklahoma for his informative radio and television appearances.

Aric Thorpe, MHR, is Brookhaven Hospital's Pastoral Liaison Representative. He conducts the quarterly Minister's Lifeline series and provides mental health information to pastors and clergy.

Sarah McGee, BA, serves as the Community Education Provider for Brookhaven Hospital. She provides information on mental health and drug and alcohol treatment to healthcare professionals in Oklahoma and surrounding states.

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