Antidepressants: new safety measures for all patients to improve communication of the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours and persistent sexual dysfunction

MHRA says new safety communication measures are being implemented for all patients taking antidepressants. These include a boxed warning, a patient card and a supporting leaflet covering suicidal thoughts and behaviours and persistent sexual dysfunction; the agency says these are not new risks.

Why it matters: MHRA highlights risk discussions at treatment starts, dose changes and reviews, alongside monitoring and suspected adverse reaction reporting.