A WOMAN who has endured her own struggle with a controversial anti-depressant is to set-up a support group for other users.

Lynne Bradley, 52, wants to more to be done to educate people about Seroxat and hopes East Lancashire people will get together to talk about experiences.

Her efforts have been supported by Hyndburn MP Greg Pope, who has signed an early day motion along with 95 other MPs concerned about its side effects.

An inquiry by government medical advisers was launched two weeks ago which will investigate withdrawal reactions and reports of suicide.

The drug has sparked controversy since it was introduced 13 years ago. Last month the Lancashire Evening Telegraph revealed how Blackburn widower Marban Ahmed, 34, whose wife took Seroxat before committing suicide, is among others to take legal action against makers GlaxoSmithKline.

Alleged side effects include joint and muscular pain, excessive sweating, nightmares, teeth grinding when asleep, coordination problems and mood swings.

A GlaxoSmithKline spokesman said Seroxat is an effective treatment for depression and has helped tens of millions of patients worldwide.

Lynne, from Avalon Way, Darwen, has taken the drug for more than three years and said: "My concerns are about the physical harm caused and the suffering of friends and family. That's one of the reasons for the support group.

"There are a lot of people out there who think they are in this alone. The group will be able to show people there is help available."

Lynne's idea has received the backing of a 51-year-old from Blackburn who said she has lost two years of her life to the drug.

The mother-of-one, who wanted to be identified only as Jean, said she even contemplated throwing herself under a train at Blackburn station. She said: "It's been horrendous. I don't know how I've survived."

Greg Pope, Hyndburn MP said: "The government needs to carry out further tests on the drug. I'm concerned about it."

A GlaxoSmithKline spokesman said: "The majority of people don't get side effects either taking Seroxat or on stopping. But some people do. We're strengthening patient information on side effects, particularly on stopping, so there is greater clarity.

"Our sympathy goes out to anybody who experiences any of the symptoms of depression or side effects related to the treatment."

Lynne can be contacted on 01254 773816