The Handbook of Psychiatric Drug Therapy for Children and Adolescents.

A compilation of literature and clinical wisdom, this handbook provides the reader with current information on the safety and efficacy of the psychotropic agents in the pediatric population. It lists information on the pharmacokinetics, adverse effects, dosing, and suggested monitoring guidelines for children and adolescents. The guide may also be used as a reference by practitioners. The handbook avoids repeating or extrapolating the adult information on indications, adverse effects, and dosing, and it is assumed that any adverse effect that has been reported in adults may occur in children and adolescents. Only the drugs that have been used to treat disorders in children and adolescents are included in this text. It is divided into six sections: central nervous system stimulants; antidepressants, including tricyclic antidepressants, bupropion, and trazodone; antipsychotics, lithium: benzodiazepines; and other agents used in child and adolescent psychiatry, such as beta-blockers, buspirone, clonidine, and naltrexone. Also included are practical monitoring guidelines which include needed baseline assessments and specific instructions for parents or caregivers. Contains over 100 references and a comprehensive index. (RJM)