Antipsychotic drug use in children raises questions about side effects

By Elizabeth Rhein

Published on May 09, 2006

According to a study conducted by Medco Health Solutions, in 2005, there was a sharp increase in the number of antipsychotic drugs prescribed for children and adolescents. While only 15 percent of the total antipsychotic prescriptions written were for children, medical experts are still concerned about the 80 percent increase in this age group -- an increase much greater than the adult population.

Originally, powerful antipsychotic drugs were intended for use in patients with serious problems, such as schizophrenia. Researchers in charge of the latest study are concerned that these potent medications are being improperly prescribed for common childhood issues such as behavioral problems. In addition, some of the drugs covered in the study, including Zyprexa, Seroquel, Abilify, and Geodon, belong to a class of medications called "atypical antipsychotics" - the FDA has not approved the use of atypical antipsychotic drugs for children.

Doctors are unsure what the long-term effects of antipsychotic medication might be on children and adolescents, though there has been a recent link to the drugs and the emergence of diabetes.

If your child is currently taking antipsychotic medication and you are concerned about the possible side effects, you should talk to your doctor about your options.

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