Study Finds Prozac No More Effective Than Placebo for Childhood Depression, Sparks Debate
A new study has found that Prozac (fluoxetine), a commonly prescribed antidepressant, offers no clinical benefit over a placebo when treating depression in children and adolescents, while carrying a higher risk of side effects. The research, examining data from the UK, US, and Canada, reveals that clinical guidelines continue to recommend the drug despite evidence suggesting its ineffectiveness compared to an inactive treatment.
Mark Horowitz, an associate professor of psychiatry at Adelaide university and a co-author of the study, stated: “Fluoxetine is clearly clinically equivalent to placebo in its benefits, but is associated with greater side effects and risks.It is indeed challenging to see how anyone can justify exposing young peopel to a drug with known harms when it has no advantage over placebo in its benefits.”
Horowitz argues that guidelines should refrain from recommending treatments that are no more effective than a placebo, advocating instead for a focus on understanding and addressing the underlying causes of depression in young people. “Guidelines in the UK and around the world currently recommend treatments for children with depression that are not in line with the best evidence. this exposes young people to the risks of medication without any benefit over placebo,” he explained.
the study also highlights concerns about the poorly understood long-term effects of antidepressants in young people, citing research in adults that indicates potential for serious and persistent side effects even after medication is stopped.
In response to the findings, a spokesperson for the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) emphasized the importance of a range of treatment options for young people experiencing depression. “Our guideline recommends a choice of psychological therapies as first line treatment options for children and young people with depression,” the spokesperson stated.NICE guidelines recommend specialist review for moderate to severe cases, and suggest antidepressants may be considered in combination with psychological therapy under regular specialist supervision.
However,Prof Allan Young,chair of the Royal College of Psychiatrists’ Academic Faculty,urged caution in interpreting the study. He noted that clinical guidelines consider factors beyond average effect size, including safety, feasibility, and patient preferences, and stressed the importance of consistent evidence and safety data for prescribed medications.
If you are struggling with depression, support is available:
* UK: Mind – 0300 123 3393, Childline – 0800 1111
* US: Mental Health America – call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org
* Australia: Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636, Lifeline – 13 11 14, MensLine – 1300 789 978.
