Anti-depressants: Cost, Risks and Ramifications
Debate between Baroness Pidgeon and Baroness Merron(1 week, 4 days ago)
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Baroness Merron (Lab)
I assure the noble Lord that NICE keeps all its clinical guidance under active surveillance to ensure that it can respond to any new evidence that is relevant, including relevant clinically related literature, that could possibly impact on its recommendations. More broadly, guidance recommends that suicidal ideation should be monitored in people with depression who are receiving treatment, particularly in the early weeks of treatment. That includes specific recommendations on medication for people at risk of suicide.
Baroness Pidgeon (LD)
My Lords, a study in 2019 found that a third of women were prescribed anti-depressants by their GP to combat symptoms of the menopause. What are the Government’s current assessment of this situation and of adherence to NICE guidance in this area? If the Minister does not have full details to hand, perhaps she can write to me.
Baroness Merron (Lab)
I would be very pleased to write further to the noble Baroness. This is a very important point about support for women during the menopause. However, a prescription is made only after discussion with the patient about it and other alternatives, and the clinician has to follow and comply with the guidelines. Patient choice is absolutely key here. Every individual is an individual, and only what is appropriate should be prescribed—if needed.