The use of antidepressant drugs in children is a topic that does not always have a clear-cut recommendation. The National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH) has found in studies that the benefits of antidepressant medications might outweigh the risks in some children. But the NIMH has also warned parents and medical professionals that some medicines used to treat pediatric and adolescent depression might cause suicidal thoughts in patients younger than 25 years old.
Assessment
Children displaying mood changes associated with depression should have a complete physical and psychiatric evaluation. Family medical histories should also be part of the assessment process.
Recommended Drugs
A group of drugs called serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been determined to be safe and beneficial to some children who suffer from depression. These drugs include Fluoxetine, Paroxetine and Sertraline. Fluoxetine, marketed under the name Prozac, is the only drug that is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for children as of 2009.
Monitoring
Children who take antidepressant medications require strict monitoring to be sure the dosage is correct and side effects are not serious. Medical care providers should see patients three to four times within the first three months of treatment.
Warning Signs
Thoughts about suicide or injuring themselves are serious warning signs children taking SSRIs could exhibit and must be taken seriously. An increase in anxiety or aggressive behavior is another potentially dangerous side effect.
Alternatives
Talk therapy with a qualified counselor might be an alternative to consider if you or your child are not ready to try antidepressant drugs.
