Out-of-character, sudden deaths continue to raise urgent concerns about the mental health side effects of doxycycline, a commonly prescribed antibiotic. Teenager Alana Cutland died after taking the drug which was prescribed as an anti-malaria med prior to her univiersity trip to study in Madagascar. Her devastated parents emphasized that while antibiotics play an important role, the severity of adverse effects like suicidal ideation can be virtually undocumented, leaving families shocked and grieving.

Emily Darlington, MP, has called for the Department of Health to review the coroner’s report. A 2019 BMJ case report also noted suicidal thoughts in young people taking doxycycline for skin conditions, highlighting the need for awareness and vigilance.

Akathisia is a medication-induced disorder often associated with medication-induced suicidality and suicide. MISSD believes patient information leaflets should fully inform consumers about suicidality riks — and should specifically list the term, AKATHISIA. Read the full article at: https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/36005831/alana-cutland-doxycycline-drug-suicide/.