Florida health officials caution against psychotropic medications for children
, Fla. —
The Florida Department of Health has released new guidance advising healthcare providers to be cautious when prescribing psychotropic medications for children, including antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, mood stabilizers, and stimulants.
In the guidance statement, agency leaders noted that many psychotropic medications do not have Food and Drug Administration-approved labeling for use in children and raised concerns about the potential long-term adverse effects of these drugs.
Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo recommended that healthcare providers explore alternative strategies to reduce the use of these medications.
“Those include performing comprehensive evaluations of health history, full physical examinations and testing, and beginning psychotherapy before considering medication,” Ladapo said.
The health department also encouraged both healthcare providers and families to assess environmental and lifestyle factors that may affect a child’s well-being.
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