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Pediatric psychopharmacology
M A Riddle1, E A Kastelic, E Frosch
1Department of Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21287-3325, USA. mriddle@jhmi.edu
Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, and Allied Disciplines
|February 24, 2001
Summary
This review examines pediatric psychopharmacology research from the past decade, covering influencing factors, study designs, and findings for various psychotropic medications. It highlights gaps in empirical data for many treatments.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Psychopharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Child Psychiatry
Background:
- Social, economic, and regulatory factors significantly influence pediatric psychopharmacology research and prescribing.
- Evolving models of childhood psychopathology and increased funding have shaped the field.
- Changes in industry regulations impact research practices and outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review research in pediatric psychopharmacology over the last decade.
- To analyze influences on research and prescribing patterns.
- To present data on efficacy, effectiveness, and safety of psychotropic agents in children.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of research published over the past 10 years.
- Inclusion criteria focused on study design (placebo-controlled, large sample size), funding source, and research vision.
- Data synthesis for short-term efficacy, long-term efficacy, effectiveness, safety, and adverse events for major psychotropic classes.
Main Results:
- Reviewed findings for stimulants, SSRIs, neuroleptics, alpha-adrenergic agonists, mood stabilizers, bupropion, secretin, naltrexone, immune therapies, and natural supplements.
- Identified significant gaps in empirical data for many medications, particularly regarding long-term efficacy and effectiveness.
- Discussed trends in study design and outcome measurement in pediatric psychopharmacology.
Conclusions:
- The field of pediatric psychopharmacology has seen advancements, but substantial empirical data gaps remain for many treatments.
- Future research should focus on addressing these data gaps to improve treatment guidelines and patient outcomes.
- Speculations on the future of pediatric psychopharmacology research are offered, emphasizing the need for creative applications and rigorous study designs.