67. Concerns over Antidepressants for Children and Adolescents

Utilization of antidepressant medications among children and teens continue to rise despite poor efficacy. The assumption in many communities is that these drugs are safe and a front line treatment, but the hazards are rarely discussed and severely underestimated. In our opinion, the risks far outweigh any established benefits for antidepressant use in children, adolescents and young adults. Patients and families should be aware of the substantial risks associated with use.