Anti-Psychotic Drugs And Youth

Probably the most worrying story I've read this past week ...

Tranquillisers designed to treat serious conditions including schizophrenia in adults were prescribed to young people 57,000 times in 2003. But the total had risen to more than 90,000 by 2006 – a 59 per cent rise in three years.

Experts believe the increase is partly down to early detection and treatment of serious mental health problems in children, but there is also concern they are being used inappropriately to treat psychological and learning difficulties. Shortage of staff and resources are further factors. The safety and effectiveness of these drugs, which were designed for adults, have not been fully tested on children.

Paul Corry, director of public affairs for the mental health charity Rethink, said:

"It is worrying that these very powerful drugs designed for adults are being given in such high numbers to children before their brains are fully developed. If the increase is because previously undiagnosed teenagers are now getting treatment, then that is positive. But it is difficult to justify the widespread use of these drugs in younger children because it is actually unlikely they will have schizophrenia at such a young age."