In recent years, troubling reports have emerged documenting serious side effects for children and teenagers taking antipsychotic medications. A National Institute of Mental Health study detailed numerous incidences of weight gain, high cholesterol, and high levels of triglycerides in young people taking antipsychotic medications. The participants experienced these side effects after taking the medications for only a couple of months. In addition, the one-year study of antipsychotic medication use in young people observed side effects so severe that children and adolescents could not continue using them any longer. For these reasons, doctors must use caution in determining the right dose and type of medication for young people.
In recent years, troubling reports have emerged documenting serious
side effects for children and teenagers taking antipsychotic
medications. A National Institute of Mental Health study detailed
numerous incidences of weight gain, high...
More
Dr. Mark Morocco answered:In recent years, troubling reports have emerged documenting serious side effects for children and teenagers taking antipsychotic medications. A National Institute of Mental Health study detailed numerous incidences of weight gain, high cholesterol, and high levels of triglycerides in young people taking antipsychotic medications. The participants experienced these side effects after taking the medications for only a couple of months. In addition, the one-year study of antipsychotic medication use in young people observed side effects so severe that children and adolescents could not continue using them any longer. For these reasons, doctors must use caution in determining the right dose and type of medication for young people.