Prozac: Bad to the Bone?

“Side effects may include …” is a common expression in our drug-happy society. And now, a new study shows that Prozac—today common fare for depressed children—may impair bone growth. “Researchers say cellular mechanisms important to bone growth may shut down in the presence of the drug, hindering healthy skeletal development” (HealthDay, November 11).

Additionally, all antidepressants must now carry a “black box” warning, the government’s strongest safety alert, linking the drugs to increased suicidal thoughts and behavior among children and teens taking them.

Just how dangerous are these drugs on which so many have come to rely for their mental well-being?