Should we use SSRIs to treat adolescents with depression?

Abstract

Yes. B ased on current evidence, fluoxetine is the most effective selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) for treatment of major depressive disorder in adolescents. It is the only agent approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in children (strength of recommendation [SOR]: A, based on meta-analysis of RCTs). All SSRI medications increase the risk of suicidal behavior in adolescents, but do not increase the risk of completing suicide (SOR: A, based on meta-analysis of RCTs).