Increase in suicidal thoughts and tendencies. Association with diazepam therapy

Abstract

[long dash]Seven cases occurred in which there was an association in time between the institution of diazepam therapy and the onset of suicidal thoughts and tendencies, which tended to be concealed by patients who were at the time receiving psychiatric treatment. An additional patient demonstrated deepening of depression while receiving diazepam. Physicians should consider the possible adverse depressive effect of diazepam when prescribing it as an antianxiety agent.