This paper investigates the fact that some antidepressants have higher fatal overdose rates than others. Mortality rates from different antidepressants based on age & gender in the UK from 1979-85 were tabulated. Amitriptyline & dothiepin were involved in the most deaths. The findings indicate differences between antidepressants, and possibly differences in their inherent toxicity. It is recommended that risk of death from overdose be considered when prescribing antidepressants. (41 refs.)