A new New York Times article reports that the Department of Veterans Affairs is expanding informed-consent requirements for medications marketed for psychiatric use.

Beginning in 2027, the VA will require additional patient education about medication risks, benefits, alternatives, and safe discontinuation. Veterans under 30 who are prescribed antidepressants will also be required to provide signed consent.

The FDA’s boxed warning for antidepressants identifies increased suicidality risk in children, adolescents, and young adults through age 24. But akathisia does not discriminate based on age.

Akathisia is a medication-induced disorder that can affect anyone. It can occur when starting, stopping, or changing the dose or type of certain medications and can precipitate self-harm, violence, and suicide.

Patients and families deserve clear information about medication risks and what changes to watch for.

Read the full article at: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/09/28/science/veterans-psychiatric-drugs-consent.html?unlocked_article_code=1.E1E.9Dzk.tgZPJ7Wa5Hho.