Anti-depressants, opiate and non-opiate analgesics linked to increased homicide risk

January 26, 2016   |   Evidence in Integrative Healthcare

In a report published online in World Psychiatry on June 11, 2015, research shows a link between impulse control and increased homicide risk with use of anti-depressants, opiates and non-opiates, including benzodiazepines. The study found no link with prescription anti-psychotics and decreased impulse/homicide risk. “The surprisingly high risk associated with opioid and non-opioid analgesics deserves further attention in the treatment of pain among individuals with a criminal history,” the authors write.Providers should inquire and note these medications as well as past criminal behavior.