Possible Genetic Causes of Borderline Personality Disorder Identified

sea-maid submitted, created time 3 weeks 1 day (www.sciencedaily.com)

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, borderline personality disorder (BPD) is more common than schizophrenia or bipolar disorder and is estimated to affect two percent of the population. In a new study, a University of Missouri researcher and Dutch team of research collaborators found that genetic material on chromosome nine was linked to BPD features, a disorder characterized by pervasive instability in moods, interpersonal relationships, self-image and behavior, and can lead to suicidal behavior, substance abuse and failed relationships.

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Suicidal actions linked with epilepsy drugs

kavin submitted, created time 6 months 2 weeks (today.reuters.co.uk)

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Epilepsy drugs are associated with a higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior, U.S. drug reviewers said in an analysis that was released on Wednesday and mirrored earlier findings.

"The effect appears consistent among the group of 11 drugs" that were reviewed, according to a summary from statistical reviewers at the Food and Drug Administration. There were about two more cases per every 1,000 patients given the drugs instead of a placebo, the FDA staff said in a review dated May 23

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Benefits of Antidepressants Outweigh Risk of Suicidal Behavior in Adolescents

fiona submitted, created time 1 year 8 months (www.sciam.com)

"The most comprehensive survey yet finds that the benefits of antidepressants outweigh the risks in children and teens during the first few months of treatment. The finding comes three years after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ordered pharmaceutical companies to put black warning labels—the strongest possible—on antidepressants cautioning that the drugs may increase the risk of suicidal behavior in kids. "

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