Will using St. John's Wart as an anti-depressant increase suicidal tendencies?

Answer 1

If you are asking this question, you need to be speaking with a medical professional. Go make a phone call, NOW.

Answer 2

No. Or it depends how you define it. Anti-depressants doesn't really increase suicidal tendencies, but it can increase energy without releaving depression, making some people more likely to go through with it. Generally it should be a minor issue. If you think it might be an issue for a certain person I would think it is safest to choose a pharmaceutical with a good record together with a professional. (Some anti-depressants are more stimulating than others, and I would think St John is a bit like these, and therefore probably not the best choice).

Answer 3

While I've heard that some prescription anti-depressants can contribute to suicidal tendencies, I've never heard it about St. John's wart, which is a natural supplement and does not contain any drugs. You might ask someone who works in a health food store, who may be more knowledgeable about that particular supplement. I've heard advertised, that some of the popular anti-depressant drugs list suicidal tendencies as one of the side-effects, particularly among young people or teenagers. It would seem that they have the opposite effect of what was originally intended. Before taking any kind of supplement, I would consult a health care professional first, because even "natural" products can have side effects, especially if used along with other supplements or drugs.

Answer 4

St. John's Wart and Gingko Bilboa are not suppose to be used if you are already taking an anti-depressant. They are natural OTC herbs and NO they won't cause you to have increased suicidal tendencies if you're not taking them with your Rx meds..