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Use of Atypical Antipsychotics in Pediatric Populations

Beth Heuer1, Teresa Whited2

  • 1Beth Heuer, Clinical Professor, The Ohio State University College of Nursing, Columbus, OH.

Journal of Pediatric Health Care : Official Publication of National Association of Pediatric Nurse Associates & Practitioners
|January 13, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Nurse practitioners are crucial for managing atypical antipsychotics in children with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other conditions. This review covers prescribing, monitoring, and discontinuing these vital pediatric medications.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Psychiatry
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Atypical antipsychotics are primary treatments for pediatric bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
  • These medications also manage behaviors in autism spectrum disorder, disruptive behavior disorders, and tic disorders.
  • Nurse practitioners are key in initiating and monitoring these treatments for children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacogenomics of common atypical antipsychotics.
  • To guide appropriate prescribing, monitoring, and discontinuation of these drugs in pediatric patients.
  • To highlight the role of nurse practitioners in managing these medications.

Main Methods:

  • Review of pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and pharmacogenomic data for specific atypical antipsychotics.
  • Synthesis of current literature on prescribing, monitoring, and tapering strategies.
  • Focus on medications including aripiprazole, olanzapine, quetiapine, and risperidone.

Main Results:

  • Detailed descriptions of the pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and pharmacogenomic profiles of key atypical antipsychotics.
  • Guidance on monitoring for efficacy and potential side effects in pediatric populations.
  • Considerations for safe and effective tapering or discontinuation protocols.

Conclusions:

  • Atypical antipsychotics are essential for managing various pediatric psychiatric conditions.
  • Evidence-based approaches to prescribing and monitoring are critical for optimizing treatment outcomes.
  • Nurse practitioners require comprehensive knowledge to effectively manage these medications in children.

Keywords:
Antipsychotic agentsautism spectrum disorderdisruptive behaviorpediatricspsychopharmacology

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