A review of the growing evidence base for pediatric psychopharmacology

Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am. 2004 Oct;13(4):817-55, vi. doi: 10.1016/j.chc.2004.04.007.

Abstract

This article provides an update of pediatric psychopharmacologic treatment evidence and focuses on six classes of medications in pediatric populations: psychostimulants, mood stabilizers, SSRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, antipsychotic agents, and other agents. The evidence is organized by disorder so that it is most useful to practicing clinicians. We begin each section with a brief introduction and summary of the findings published before January 1998. Priority is given to clinical trials that use random assignment and use of a comparison group (ie, placebo-control, head-to-head comparison, or cross-over design). Serious concerns remain about the efficacy and safety of many of these agents for use in children and adolescents. While a great progress is being made, there is clearly much work left to be done.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Age Factors
  • Central Nervous System Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Child
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Safety

Substances

  • Central Nervous System Agents