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Drug Prescribing in Child and Adolescent Eating Disorder Services
Simon Gowers1, Mary Claxton1, Laura Rowlands1
1Section of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Liverpool, UK.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health
|August 28, 2020
Summary
Psychotropic drugs are prescribed for child and adolescent eating disorders, but their effectiveness and side effects remain uncertain. Further research is needed to clarify risks and benefits in this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Eating Disorder Treatment
- Psychopharmacology
Background:
- Psychotropic medications are not standard for child and adolescent eating disorders but are used empirically.
- Limited data exists on prescribing rates and the effects of these drugs in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the rates and outcomes of psychotropic drug prescription in pediatric and adolescent eating disorder services.
- To investigate the indications, effectiveness, and adverse events associated with psychotropic drug use.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective case note study was conducted.
- Data from 308 child and adolescent eating disorder cases were analyzed from seven UK specialist services over one year.
- Prescribing patterns, treatment response, and adverse effects were examined.
Main Results:
- Psychotropic drugs were prescribed to 27% of patients, primarily for anorexia nervosa, with 12% receiving them before specialist referral.
- Fluoxetine and olanzapine were most common, but 26 different drugs were used for indications like depression, anxiety, and weight-related concerns.
- While generally well-tolerated, the drugs' effectiveness was uncertain.
Conclusions:
- Non-specialists frequently prescribe psychotropic medication to young patients with eating disorders without consulting specialists.
- Specialists also prescribe these drugs empirically, with few apparent immediate adverse effects, though under-reporting may occur.
- Prospective clinical trials are necessary to fully understand the risks and benefits.
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