Children and Psychiatric Medications I. Introduction

A. According to the Surgeon General, one in five children has symptoms of a behavioral or psychological disorder. About 5 million children in the US. B. The number of children diagnosed and treated with psychiatric medicine has risen dramatically over the last several years. C. Psychiatric medication includes stimulants for ADHD (Attention Deficit –Hyperactivity disorder), anti-depressants, anti-psychotics, anti-consultants, and mood stabilizers. D. ADHD is more common in the U.S than any other country, primarily diagnosed in children. II. What are commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorders in children?

A. Anxiety Disorders B. Attention-Deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) C. Disruptive Behavior Disorders D. Pervasive development disorders E. Eating Disorders F. Elimination Disorders G. Learning and Communication Disorders H. Schizophrenia I. Tic Disorders J. Mood Disorders

III. What are commonly prescribed psychiatric medications? A. Stimulants: Ritalin, Focalin, Methylin, Adderall B. Non-Stimulant: Strattera C. SSRIs or SRIs (specific serotonin reuptake inhibitors): Prozac, Serefam, Zoloft, Paxil, Luvox, Celexa, Lexapro D. Antipsychotics E. Second generation (atypical) antipsychotics F. Anxiolytic (benxodiazepine): Xanax, Clonopin G. Hypnotics (sleep): Ambien, lunesta H. Mood Stabilizers: Lithium I. Anti-Convulsants (anti-seizure) J. Off Label Use 1. Based on clinical experience and medication knowledge, a physician may prescribe to young children a medication that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in adults or older children. This use of the medication is called "off-label." Most medications prescribed for child mental disorders, including many of the newer medications that are proving helpful, are prescribed