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A list of drugs which may present potential health hazards was recently published by the FDA and can be accessed at the FDA’s website. The list includes some antidepressants which have been widely prescribed and may lead to suicidal ideations.

The following are just a few of the drugs that have landed on the FDA’s list:

Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro, Celexa, Able, Maprotiline, Atomexitine, Bupropion, Ablify

Drugs which are under investigation have been identified as having potential side effects. Physicians who prescribe any medication engage in a balancing approach in which they try to insure the patient receives the intended benefit from the medication without an adverse reaction. If a patient begins to experience an adverse reaction while taking a medication it is important to work with the physician to address the side effects and, if possible, avoid any potential harm.

Many times simple changes in dose or the frequency of taking a medication may relieve side effects while still providing the benefit of the medication. The best source of information describing symptoms which a patient suspects are side effects of any medication is the patient. If a patient suspects they are experiencing an unusual reaction while taking any medication, a full description of the symptoms should be reported to the treating doctor. It may be helpful to make notes describing the symptoms including when they began, how long they lasted and whether any other medication had been taken when the symptoms began. In cases of visible symptoms such as hives or rashes, a photo to show the doctor is a good idea. It is also important that a patient being treated by multiple physicians be sure each physician is aware of all the medication being prescribed by other doctors.

Prescription medications are intended to produce beneficial effects for the patient and should generally be taken specifically as instructed by a doctor. The FDA investigation should warn the public of some risks associated with the medications under investigation. If you, or someone you know, are concerned about the use of any medication, consult with the prescribing physician and discuss your concerns thoroughly. Physicians are concerned about the well being of their patients and such discussions provide an opportunity to address issues which directly deal with a patient’s care.

About the Editors: Shapiro, Cooper Lewis & Appleton personal injury law firm is based in Virginia (VA), near the NE North Carolina (NC) border and handles car,truck,railroad, and medical negligence cases and more. Our lawyers proudly edit the Virginia Beach Injuryboard, Norfolk Injuryboard, and Northeast North Carolina Injuryboard as a pro bono public information service. Lawyers licensed in: VA, NC, SC, WV, DC, KY.

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