An Update on Somatic Treatments for Suicide Risk

What is it about?

Suicide is a leading cause of death, and many at-risk individuals are treated in healthcare settings. This review looks at whether medications and brain-based treatments can reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Some treatments, such as lithium and clozapine, are linked to lower suicide risk over time, while others, such as ketamine and electroconvulsive therapy, can quickly reduce suicidal thoughts. Most studies, however, were not designed to measure suicide attempts or deaths. Overall, these treatments seem to reduce risk mainly by improving mental illness, and more research is needed to develop treatments that directly target suicide risk.

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