A recent report has found that some drugs generally used to treat seizures may increase the risk of suicide. The drugs Neurontin, Lamictal, Trileptal, Valproic Acid and Gabitril have all been found to increase the risk of suicide usually within 14 days of taking the drugs. Although these drugs are used to prevent seizures, they are also used to treat bipolar disorder, migraine headaches, neuropathy and even restless leg syndrome.

It is important that if you or a loved one are prescribed any of these drugs that others around you or them are aware of the need for close observation early on in treatment. There are always warnings about over the counter medications and herbal medications. Sometimes patients and physicians assume that prescription medications must be safe. However, as we have seen with other drugs, that may not always be the case.

Regardless of whether drugs are prescription or over the counter, it is important that you are aware of the risks as well as the benefits.