During the past ten years prescriptions of psychotropic medications for children have increased 600% or more–this in spite of sparse data to support this trend. More than 80% of these are given for non-psychotic diagnoses. A recent observational study of 272 young persons with a mean age of 14 found that a weight gain of 7% or more occurred in those on these medications compared to the controls. Most patients also experienced lipid level abnormalities as well. Parents and clinicians are challenged to know best how to treat severe behavioral disorders in children.
PositiveTip: If you have a child with psychotic-like disorders, insist on a careful consultation with a child psychiatrist , and explore all non-drug options first.