SSRIs & the risk of abnormal bleeding

Abstract

Considerable research is needed to fully understand the interactions of SSRIs and hematological functioning. Adequate studies of platelet function in patients taking SSRIs are lacking. The risk of bleeding with SSRI treatment appears to be low, and the occurrence of bleeding is usually minor when it does occur. However, the risk does exist and must be considered in any patient taking SSRIs who develops abnormal bleeding or bruising not otherwise explained by an appropriate assessment to determine the etiology. Routine monitoring of patients taking SSRIs should probably include questions about bruising or bleeding, particularly in patients with blood dyscrasias and in older patients taking medications that affect platelet function. Caution should be exercised before starting patients with preexisting bleeding risks on SSRIs, including patients taking NSAIDs, aspirin, or other drugs that may impair coagulation.