What is the black box warning for antidepressants?

The FDA black box warning for antidepressants states that these medications may increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults under age 25 during the initial weeks of treatment. This warning applies to all antidepressant classes including SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, and MAOIs. Patients starting antidepressants or changing doses should be closely monitored, especially during the first four weeks.