i hate this.
Anti-psychotic drug use soars in UK children, too
American children take anti-psychotic medicines at about six times the rate of children in the United Kingdom, according to a comparison based on a new U.K. study.
Does it mean U.S. kids are being over-treated? Or that U.K. children are being under-treated?
Experts say that's almost beside the point, because use is rising on both sides of the Atlantic. And with scant long-term safety data, it's likely the drugs are being over-prescribed for both U.S. and U.K. children, research suggests.
Among the most commonly used drugs were those to treat autism and hyperactivity.
Reasons for the increases are uncertain but may be similar to those in the United States, such as an increase in autism cases and drug industry influence.
drug industry influence! why are we poisoning our children? why are we poisoning ourselves? have u seen all the drug commercials on television?? wake up mom & dad! your child's teacher is not a medical expert. the school nurse is not a behavior expert. review your home environment, routines, & discipline before doping up your child. the fda, hillary clinton & big pharmco r not the answer!
In both countries, the issue isn't simply how many children are getting these drugs, said Dr. David Fassler, a University of Vermont psychiatry professor. "The more important question is whether or not the right kids are getting the most appropriate and effective treatment possible," he said. Fassler wasn't involved in the study.
Dr. William Cooper, a Vanderbilt pediatrician, said the study shows the drugs are being used "without full understanding about the risks."
