Dennis B. Kottler, MD
Westlake Village, CA
Appointments: 818-991-8376
Email: doc@psychiatrix.com
Antidepressant medication:
IN THE NEWS: There has been widespread publicity about the possible harmful effects of antidepressant medication, especially in children. Some studies have indicated a possible increase in suicidal ideation (although not actual suicides) in children on antidepressant medication.
PSYCHIATRIX: It has been known for many years that there are suicidal risks in the population of patients using antidepressant medication. It is still unproven whether these risks are the direct cause of the medication or the psychiatric condition itself. Nonetheless, all psychiatric medication has side effects and should be closely monitored by a physician. In the case of antidepressants these side effects can include, in some cases, an initial increase in anxiety or agitation. This will usually pass with further treatment but sometimes has to be treated with other medication on a short-term basis.
New Anti-Sleepiness Medication:
IN THE NEWS: A new medication for excessive daytime sleepiness, NUVIGIL(Rx), has recently received FDA approval.
Please see: Daytime Sleepiness: Provigil/Nugivil
Appointments: 818-991-8376
Email: doc@psychiatrix.com