Predictive factors for polypharmacy among child and adolescent psychiatry inpatients.
BACKGROUND
Aim was to determine the predictive factors for polypharmacy among inpatient children and adolescents with psychiatric disorders.


METHODS
Blinded, case-note review of children and adolescents with ICD 10 diagnosis of psychiatric disorders on psychotropic medication was conducted. Data on demography, illness, and treatment was analyzed with univariate and multivariate techniques.


RESULTS
Proscribing non-pharmacological interventions (OR = 4.7) and pro re nata medication (OR = 3.3), increased the risk of polypharmacy. Prescribing physical restraint reduced the risk of receiving multiple medications (OR = 0.3).


CONCLUSIONS
Proscribing non-pharmacological interventions, pro re nata medication and physical restraints increased polypharmacy.
Russell
Paul S S
PS
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Christian Medical College, Vellore 632 002, India.
George
Christina
C
Mammen
Priya
P