Painkiller Ziconotide Could Increase Suicidal Ideation

According to ScienceDaily.com the painkiller Ziconotide could increase suicidal ideation. 6 years ago it was confirmed a safe alternative to morphine. But now it is under the suspicion that it could cause some to commit suicide.

Its ideal target is to reduce pain, but there is suspicion is can also reduce anxiety and impulse control, and change the frame of mind. This is not in all patients, but more likely those with a history of depression or are prone to depression.

Ziconotide was created so that it would not have any of the side effects like opioids, such as respiratory depression.

There isn't much to the article itself, so it was a little hard to write. But I think its a really important article. I can only assume that screenings for depression would now soon be required (or strongly recommended) before someone is given this painkiller. But of course it is only a suspicion and hopefully more research can help the problem.