An overview of the use of antidepressants in children and adolescents.
OBJECTIVE
To provide a relevant, evidence-based review of antidepressant use in children for primary care providers.


METHODS
Selected published studies, reviews, and guidelines are synthesized.


RESULTS
Best evidence supports combination treatment (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor plus Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Anxiety disorders. Data for efficacious uses of antidepressants in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism are scant but emerging.


CONCLUSIONS
Despite recent FDA warnings, antidepressants are beneficial for a variety of childhood disorders (including MDD, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Autism).
Tandon
Mini
M
Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, USA. tandonm@psychiatry.wustl.edu
Pruett
John R
JR
D000293:Adolescent; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002648:Child; D003865:Major Depressive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008923:Missouri
D000928:Antidepressive Agents