In a question to the Leader of the House of Commons, Andrew Rosindell M.P., Member of Parliament for Romford, raised the concerns of many of his constituents who have flagged the consequences of the unnecessary prescription of antidepressants.
The Leader of the House acknowledged these concerns and has stated it would make for an appropriate debate.
I would like the Leader of the House to know that a number of my constituents have contacted me regarding the prescribing of antidepressant medicine in the UK and the iatrogenic harm caused to patients by antidepressant medication. Many are now diagnosed and suffering from conditions including post-acute withdrawal syndrome and post-SSRI—selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors—dysfunction. My right hon. Friend the Member for Tatton (Esther McVey) held a Westminster Hall debate on this issue only last year. However, given the severity of the concerns raised, will the Leader of the House consider a full debate in Government time on this very important matter?
Andrew Rosindell M.P., Member of Parliament for Romford
I think every MP in the House will have had constituents contact them about the use of anti- depressants, how they are prescribed, their effects, and whether they are fully understood by those they are given to. This is a really important issue, and I will ensure that the hon. Gentleman gets a full response, but I think this would make a very good topic for a debate.
The Rt Hon. Lucy Powell M.P., Leader of the House of Commons
