Prescribing psychotropic medication to children in general practice

Abstract

Child and adolescent mental health problems are common in the community, but the scientific basis for the treatment of many of these conditions is still in its infancy. Conditions for which a moderate level of skill in pharmacological management is required include obsessive-compulsive disorder, tic disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in the primary school-aged child, and persistent enuresis. Greater skill is required in the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in teenagers, and aggressive behaviour associated with autism and intellectual disability. Only clinicians with advanced skills should consider treating juvenile onset bipolar affective disorder, children with psychotic-like symptoms, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in preschoolers or in children with intellectual disability.