Dutch Group Alleges GSK Failed to Communicate Serious Risks
A formal claim will be made against GlaxoSmithKline by more than 20 people in the Netherlands who used Seroxat (paroxetine) in their youth. (GSK sells paroxetine as Paxil in America.) The group states GSK failed to inform them about the serious psychological side effects of the drug, including aggressive behavior and an increased risk of suicide. These adverse drug effects were apparently not listed on GSK’s Seroxat label at the time these teens were given the drug.
See: https://www.dutchnews.nl/news/2019/02/dutch-seroxat-teen-users-to-sue-drug-maker-for-side-effects/
Drug Approval Process Raises Consumer’s Questions
MISSD Board member, Kim Witzack, discusses the recent FDA approval of esketamine, a nasal spray to be marketed as an antidepressant. Witzack serves as a consumer representative on the FDA Advisory Committee. The FDA reviewed only one positive clinical trial before approving the drug.
See: https://www.madinamerica.com/2019/02/nasal-spray-for-depression/
Excellent Podcast Spotlighting Adverse Drug Effects
The Human Givens Institute provides an informative podcast with psychotherapist Marion Brown who sheds light on adverse drug effects. MISSD sincerely appreciates Brown’s reference to our work. Listen at: https://www.hgi.org.uk/resources/podcasts/why-antidepressants-need-be-understood
Global Drug Safety Can Improve Outcomes
Drug safety and accurate adverse reporting can improve patient outcomes across the globe. It is good to see this topic in the news. Visit: https://www.outsourcing-
Communication is Key to Patient Safety and Adherence
A recent survey finds more than half of patients are not confident in managing their own prescriptions due to inadequate patient education. MISSD supports close patient-doctor communication whenever starting, stopping or changing a drug dosage. See: patientengagementhit.com/news/patient-education-communication-key-for-medication-adherence
Learn more about withdrawal akathisia at missd.learnupon.com
Research Reports Drug Withdrawal Problems
Consumers and family members should be aware of symptoms of prescription drug withdrawal, to include withdrawal akathisia, whenever stopping certain prescriptions such as SSRIs, a class of drugs commonly labeled as antidepressants.
See: psychiatrictimes.com/couch-crisis/international-antidepressant-withdrawal-crisis-time-act
Marine Suicide Rate at 10-Year High
MISSD continues to be concerned about the alarming rate of suicides among veterans. Some explanations refer to combat-related PTSD, long deployments and difficulties adjusting to civilian life after returning home. However, many of these reported deaths are of young Marines who have never been deployed nor seen combat. While this article doesn’t mention prescription drugs, there is growing concern regarding possible adverse drug effects some vets may be suffering. House Bill 4640 was created to explore the relationship between prescription drugs and military suicides. Unfortunately, no action has been taken on the bill since its introduction in 2016.
MISSD strongly supports further research and funding to help reduce the staggering number of suicides in the military. Vets deserve access to quality care and informed consent regarding a variety of treatment options to include cognitive therapy. More than 20 veteran suicides are reported every day. Action is needed to develop a more comprehensive understanding regarding the causes of these alarming statistics.
Former President Clinton Addresses Patient Safety Summit
MISSD is pleased to see patient safety at the forefront of public discussion. Former President Clinton and Grammy nominee Belinda Carlisle recently spoke at the World Patient Safety Summit. Carlisle states this cause is close to her heart given she has lost family and friends due to medical errors. More than 200,000 people die every year in U.S. hospitals and 4.8 million worldwide in ways that could have been prevented.
See: www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190120005015/en/President-Clinton-Powerful-Message-Attendees-World-Patient