Concern over number of children prescribed antipsychotic drugs - YoungMinds

Commenting on tonight's Channel 4 news investigation into the number of children being prescribed antipsychotic drugs doubling.Chris Leaman, YoungMinds Media and Public Affairs Officer said:
“It is very concerning that young children are being given medications such as antipsychotics as young as five. Much more needs to be known about the long term effects of these drugs on children’s health as currently there is little to no research out there.    

There may be instances when it is necessary to prescribe children medications such as antipsychotics, but it should be the exception not the rule. We should not be in the position where the solution is  for GP’s to reach for the  prescription pad rather than giving children the emotional support and help that they need.”

ENDS

020 7089 5066 or chris.leaman@youngminds.org.uk