The UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) announced on 15 October 2026 a series of measures to strengthen how key risks of antidepressant medicines are communicated to patients, carers and healthcare professionals. The changes follow an extensive review initiated by the Commission on Human Medicines, prompted by concerns from patients and families about how leaflets communicate information on suicidal thoughts and behaviours and on sexual dysfunction that continues after treatment is stopped.

Under the plans, antidepressant patient information leaflets would be updated with a new boxed warning signposting information on suicidal thoughts and behaviours. The MHRA said the expectation is that a new patient card would be included in or on the medicine box. Leaflets for certain antidepressants would add the term ‘Post SSRI Sexual Dysfunction’ (PSSD) to explain the risk of symptoms continuing after stopping treatment. A supporting safety leaflet, being developed with the wider healthcare system for first appointments and for patients already receiving antidepressants, was described as available in 2027.

Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer, said the aim is not to discourage use but to improve the prominence and clarity of existing warnings, and that patients should not stop taking these medicines without first speaking to their healthcare professional. Chris Bird of NICE said NICE would consider the implications for published guidance and review its recommendations if required. A detailed Public Assessment Report was published alongside the updated safety information.