A new study has raised concerns regarding the long term use of antidepressant medications.
According to researchers, the long term benefits of these medications may not be as effective as previously believed, while their use may also be associated with certain health risks and severe symptoms when the medication is discontinued.
More than 330 million people worldwide suffer from depression, many of whom use antidepressant medications on a daily basis.
According to the study, the use of these medications among women is nearly twice as high as among men.
In developed countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, many patients continue taking antidepressant medications for years. However, emerging scientific evidence is now challenging the theory that these drugs work by correcting a deficiency of serotonin in the brain.
Researchers stated that new studies indicate that some of the theories previously proposed to explain the effects of antidepressants may not be entirely accurate, leading to renewed debate among medical experts regarding their long term effectiveness.
The study warned that individuals who use antidepressant medications for extended periods may experience severe and distressing symptoms if they stop taking the medication.
According to experts, these symptoms can be more serious and long lasting than expected in some patients, making it difficult to discontinue the medication.
Medical experts have emphasized that patients should never stop taking antidepressant medications abruptly without consulting their physician, as doing so may have negative effects on their health.
In light of the study, experts have advised healthcare professionals to regularly review patients’ treatment plans.
Researchers said that doctors should assess at least every six months whether the continued use of antidepressant medications remains necessary and beneficial for the patient.
