Antipsychotics are sometimes prescribed to treat psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents. They can be helpful in controlling psychotic symptoms and may also be prescribed to treat the symptoms of Tourette’s syndrome, such as muscle twitches. They are occasionally prescribed to treat severe anxiety and may help reduce very aggressive behavior in youngsters.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has only approved the use of three antipsychotic medications in children under 18 years of age. To date, none of the newer atypical antipsychotics have been approved by the FDA for use in this population. However, they are increasingly being prescribed in an “off-label” manner by physicians. Off-label prescription means that a drug can be used for a purpose other than which it was originally intended, and that was not approved by the FDA.

Because these medications are known to cause a host of mild to severe side effects, physicians typically prescribe them for children only when the potential benefits of the drugs outweigh the risks.
Parents and guardians should obtain complete information about antipsychotic medications when prescribed. Children and adolescents should be included in discussions about medications. Side effects, which may range from mild to severe, should be closely monitored.