SSRI antidepressants are often 'carelessly prescribed'

Article excerpt

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors like Prozac and Zoloft rank among the world's most-prescribed psychiatric medications, offering genuine relief to millions. Yet experts increasingly question whether doctors are writing too many prescriptions without adequate scrutiny. The drugs don't work for everyone, and some patients experience side effects that outweigh benefits. A growing body of research suggests the medications are often handed out without the thorough evaluation that might steer patients toward therapy, lifestyle changes, or other treatments better suited to their particular situations.