December 19, 2011
By Zee Yasin
A new study from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) revealed alarming statistics regarding the prescribing of drugs to children and infants.
|
According to the report, as reviewed by Anderson Cooper:
- Foster children are 2-4 times more likely to be prescribed psychotropic drugs
- 20,000 foster children have been prescribed excessive drug dosages
- 1,700 children are on multiple drug combinations
- More the 4,000 infants were on psychotropic drugs
(Anderson Cooper 360, 2011)
|
The study, the first of its kind included about 100,000 foster children in 5 states, suggests that foster children are being prescribed potent combinations of psychotropic drugs including anti-depressants and anti-psychotics. Susan dosReis, lead author of the study, says “this implies doctors are treating the behavior problems of foster children with the same powerful drugs used for schizophrenia and severe bipolar disorder.” (Caldwell, 2011). According to Anderson Cooper’s 360 report, some of these dosages and combinations being prescribed are considered unsafe even for adults and the long term effects of psychotropic drugs on a child’s developing brain is unknown as they’ve only been tested on adults. In addition to having long term effects on the brain, these drugs can lead to significant weight gain and triple the risk of developing diabetes.
The immediate concern is that these children are being prescribed drugs they may not need. Children coming from foster homes tend to have troubled pasts which may result in negative behaviours, but medication is not always the solution. Dr. Joanne Cummings, Clinical Director of Psychology at blueballoon Health Services, comments that “A full comprehensive clinical assessment should be done before medication is prescribed. This would take into account the child’s history, and produce a comprehensive understanding of the child, their diagnosis (if present) and current needs. There are evidence-based non-drug interventions that effectively reduce behaviour problems, including Parent Training programs for younger children (ages 8 and under) and behavior therapy including social skills training for older children (ages 8 – 18). I am not against prescribing medication for some children, as it can make a significant difference in their ability to adapt and thrive. However, medication should only be prescribed after careful consideration and thoughtful deliberation based on the child’s unique needs.” Too often it would seem that children are being prescribed medication without the benefit of a comprehensive clinical assessment, or access to individualized treatment programs that are monitored over time. Depending on the child’s needs, treatment programs can include addressing social emotional development, behaviour therapy and family counseling.
Reference:
- “Keeping them Honest: Overmedicating Children”. 360° Radar, Anderson Cooper. December 2, 2011.
- “Antipsychotic drugs are frequently given to foster kids”. The imperfect parent. November 22, 2011. Caldwell, Roger.
News Coverage Archive
Bullying Q&A with Dr. Joanne Cummings
How Music Can Help Develop Your Child
