Chapter Ten - The Treatment of Suicide Risk

Summary

In addition to suicide prediction, neuroscience can be expected to contribute in a unique and substantial way to the treatment of suicide risk. For psychotropic drugs such as lithium and clozapine a specific antisuicidal effect has been demonstrated, independent of effects on associated psychiatric disorders. The results from studies with ketamine are promising as they indicate a rapid and sustained relief of suicidal thoughts. Neurostimulation and neuromodulation provide new approaches to treatment, with a substantial impact on suicide risk. Novel pharmacological compounds targeting the vulnerability to suicidal behavior include drugs that affect the stress-response system and neuroprotective factors.