Comparative Effectiveness of Pharmacotherapies for the Risk of Attempted or Completed Suicide Among Persons With Borderline Personality Disorder

Source:

Lieslehto J, Tiihonen J, Lähteenvuo M, Mittendorfer-Rutz E, Tanskanen A, Taipale H. Comparative Effectiveness of Pharmacotherapies for the Risk of Attempted or Completed Suicide Among Persons With Borderline Personality Disorder. JAMA Netw Open. 2023;6(6):e2317130. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.17130

Key Points

Question  What is the comparative effectiveness of pharmacological treatments on the risk of suicidal behavior among individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD)?

Findings  In this comparative effectiveness research study of 22 601 individuals with BPD, the use of attention-deficit/hyperactivity (ADHD) medication was associated with a reduced risk of suicidal behavior. No other pharmacotherapy (ie, antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, or benzodiazepines) was associated with a reduced risk of suicidal behavior.

Meaning  These findings suggest that ADHD medication should be the preferred choice for individuals with BPD with ADHD symptoms and suicidal behavior.