Sunday, April 16, 2000
What we're talking about
Certain drugs are widely prescribed for young children, even though they have not been studied, approved or labeled for such use. The Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the practice of medicine; after a drug is approved for one purpose, doctors often prescribe it for other purposes.
Here are some of the common psychiatric medications prescribed for young people:
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin). Most prescribed drug for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD and ADHD). Stimulates the central nervous system.
• Amphetamines (Dexedrine, Adderal, others). Treat hyperactivity in children. Stimulates central nervous system.
• SSRI antidepressants (Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, Luvox, others). Treat depression and anxiety disorders. Influences the brain chemical serotonin.
• Tricyclic antidepressants (Tofranil, Norpramin, others). Treats major depression in children; increases brain's level of neurotransmitters.
Commonly diagnosed and medicated behavior disorders in children: Obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, separation or generalized anxiety disorders, social phobia, Tourette Syndrome, bipolar disorder or manic depressive illness, schizophrenia, eating disorders, pervasisve development disorder, autism.
Drugging our kids
Local experts speak out
What we're talking about
