Researchers insist that current prescribing practices for mood-altering drugs—such as sedatives, anti-anxiolytics, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and melatonin—must become much safer.
Scant Evidence to Justify Widespread Prescription of Mood-Altering Drugs to children for Mental Health Issues
They note a steady rise in the prescription of these drugs to children and young people, often for extended periods.
Citing previous UK studies, the editorialists highlight that the prescribing rate of antipsychotics for children increased by over 3% annually from 2000 to 2019, while the rate of antidepressant prescriptions for 12-17 year olds more than doubled between 2005 and 2017.
This issue extends beyond the UK, with similar trends seen in the US. A significant household survey shows a growing number of young individuals being prescribed a mix of these drugs, despite growing concerns regarding their safety and effectiveness.
They stress the importance of regular reviews and timely cessation of these medications. Yet, evidence suggests that primary care doctors may lack confidence in reducing dosages, while hospital-based doctors often find that inpatient stays are too brief to initiate tapering.
More Details:
“Challenging Use of Psychotropic Medication in Young People,” which raises concerns about the increasing prescription of psychotropic drugs to children and adolescents (DOI: 10.1136/dtb.2024.000022).
Citation:
“Limited Evidence Supporting Widespread Use of Mood-Altering Drugs for Children’s Mental Health Issues” (2024, July 29). Retrieved July 30, 2024.
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