The [FDA] review was prompted, in part, by queries to the agency from The New York Times last year, after some users of the most widely prescribed drug, Ambien, started complaining online and to their doctors about unusual reactions ranging from fairly benign sleepwalking episodes to hallucinations, violent outbursts, nocturnal binge eating and — most troubling of all — driving while asleep.

Night eaters said they woke up to find Tostitos and Snickers wrappers in their beds, missing food, kitchen counters overflowing with flour from baking sprees, and even lighted stoves.

Sleep-drivers reported frightening episodes in which they recalled going to bed, but woke up to find they had been arrested roadside in their underwear or nightclothes. The agency said that it was not aware of any deaths caused by sleep-driving.

The FDA is requiring that 13 sleep aids use stronger warning labels, and insisting on patient fliers for safe use instructions.

Contents © Copyright 2007 Kristen King

Post from: Blisstree

Bizarre and Dangerous Sleep Aid Side Effects

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has identified the following risk factors for suicide:

• Previous suicide attempt(s)
• History of mental disorders, particularly depression
• History of alcohol and substance abuse
• Family history of suicide
• Family history of child maltreatment
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Impulsive or aggressive tendencies
• Barriers to accessing mental health treatment
• Loss (relational, social, work, or financial)
• Physical illness
• Easy access to lethal methods
• Unwillingness to seek help because of the stigma attached to mental health and substance abuse disorders or suicidal thoughts
• Cultural and religious beliefs—for instance, the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma
• Local epidemics of suicide
• Isolation, a feeling of being cut off from other people

Metanioa, an online mental health resource, offers these suggestions for helping someone who may be suicidal:

1. Take it seriously.
2. Remember: suicidal behavior is a cry for help.
3. Be willing to give and get help sooner rather than later.
4. Listen.
5. ASK: “Are you having thoughts of suicide?”
6. If the person is acutely suicidal, do not leave him alone.
7. Urge professional help.
8. No secrets.

Read more here.

Contents © Copyright 2007 Kristen King

Post from: Blisstree

Do You Recognize Suicide Warning Signs?