What requirement do all antidepressants have?

All antidepressants are required to carry a black box warning. This warning is the strongest safety warning that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) can issue and indicates that studies have shown a significant risk of a serious or life-threatening hazard associated with the medication. In the case of many antidepressants, the black box warning specifically addresses the increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, particularly in children, adolescents, and young adults.

The presence of a black box warning is particularly important because it serves as a critical alert to both healthcare providers and patients about the potential risks, ensuring that appropriate precautions are taken. It encourages closer monitoring of patients, especially when they first start treatment or when their doses are adjusted.

While prescriptions are generally required for antidepressants, not all medications in this category are prescribed in the same manner. There are also various dosage forms available for antidepressants, and patient monitoring is essential but may not be a formalized requirement across all treatments. The black box warning provides a uniform and significant safety guideline applicable to all antidepressants, distinguishing this choice as the correct answer.