Decline in Treatment of Pediatric Depression After FDA Advisory on Risk of Suicidality With SSRIs

This study used data from a large American pediatric cohort to examine patterns of diagnosis of depression, prescription of antidepressants, prescription of pharmacological alternatives to antidepressants, & use of psychosocial care before & after the Food & Drug Administration advisory was issued. From 1999-2004, pediatric diagnoses of depression increased from 3 to 5 per 1,000. After the FDA advisory, the national rate decreased to 1999 levels. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors prescription fills were 58% lower than predicted by the trend. There was no evidence of a significant increase in use of treatment alternatives. (43 refs.)