Citation

Sparks JA, Duncan BL. J. Fam. Psychother. 2008; 19(1): 1-19.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/08975350801904072

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Prescriptions for psychiatric drugs to children and adolescents skyrocketed in the past ten years. Meanwhile, concerns of suicidality and industry bias in research have prompted regulatory investigation to assess claims that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are safe and effective for children. Family clinicians may be unaware of the controversy or do not have the time or expertise to evaluate drug research. A five flaws analysis of clinical trial research, notably SSRI and stimulant studies, offers an efficient strategy for examining scientific claims. The authors recommend that therapists critically evaluate the scientific basis for medicating youths. Guidelines are provided to assist clinicians helping young people and their families make informed decisions.

Language: en

Keywords

human; Children; Depression; suicide; Review; Adolescents; decision making; family; suicidal ideation; depression; stroke; suicide attempt; Antidepressants; major depression; suicidal behavior; clinical trial; medical ethics; mood disorder; juvenile; amphetamine; review; prescription; antidepressant agent; amitriptyline; fluoxetine; serotonin uptake inhibitor; tricyclic antidepressant agent; behavior therapy; psychotropic agent; sudden death; placebo; drug efficacy; risk benefit analysis; drug withdrawal; drug research; mania; side effect; attention deficit disorder; agitation; methylphenidate; Psychotropic medication; Risks; hyperkinesia; Psychostimulants; Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; Benefits; Critical analysis