Pharmacotherapy for Depression in Children and Adolescents

Abstract

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a familial recurrent illness associated with increased risk for suicidal behavior and suicide attempts, other psychiatric disorders (e.g., substance abuse), poor psychosocial and academic outcome, and depression and psychological difficulties during adulthood. The prevalence of MDD in children and adolescents is approximately 2% and 6%, respectively. Thus, early identification and prompt treatment of this disorder at its early stages is critical. The main goal of pharmacological treatment is to achieve remission and prevent relapses and depressive recurrences. In this chapter, the authors review the current pharmacological management for the acute, continuation, and maintenance treatment phases of MDD in children and adolescents. In addition, the authors review the pharmacological management of treatment-resistant MDD. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved) (Source: chapter)