Number of Singaporeans on Long-term Anti-depressant Medication

Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for Health (a) whether the Ministry tracks the number of Singaporeans who are on long-term anti-depressant medication; (b) if so, what are the current figures; (c) how will the Ministry raise public awareness about the potential impact of inappropriate consumption and the long-term effects of anti-depressant use, given its accessibility from alternative sources; and (d) how is the Ministry addressing the root causes of young people's reliance on anti-depressants as a primary coping mechanism.

Based on our national public health records, there were about 85,000 Singaporeans who were prescribed anti-depressant medication in 2023. The national public health records do not track the usage duration.

Doctors prescribe anti-depressants based on their clinical assessment and prevailing clinical practice guidelines. The risks and benefits of anti-depressant medication are explained to patients, including younger patients and/or their caregivers, prior to the start of treatment. Educational resources are available on Government agency websites, including the Health Science Authority, Agency for Care Effectiveness and HealthHub. These resources provide information on the safe usage and side effects of anti-depressant medications.