Antidepressant Drug Consumption and Public Health Indicators in Italy, 1955 to 2000

This study investigated the impact of the increasing consumption of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) & newer antidepressants on the following public health indicators: suicide rates, proportion of deaths by suicide by poisoning, & hospital admissions for depression. In Italy from 1983-2000, the use of tricyclic antidepressants remained stable, & the use of SSRIs & newer agents increased. Suicide rates for males decreased from 1955-1974 & increased, reaching a peak in 1985. In females, suicide rates remained stable until 1978 when an increase occurred until 1985. (LC) (25 refs)