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Research in child and adolescent psychopharmacology: recent accomplishments and new challenges

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Abstract

Rationale

Research in pediatric psychopharmacology has expanded considerably in the last 10 years. Still, controversy remains about the effectiveness and safety of commonly used psychotropics and their role in child treatment, thus pointing to the need for more in-depth and targeted investigations.

Objectives

To review recent accomplishments and current limitations of pediatric psychopharmacology, and discuss approaches to further research.

Methods

Selective review of the relevant literature and research in progress.

Results

Controlled clinical trials have been conducted in many common psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents, thus providing a basis on which evidence-based treatment guidelines can be constructed. Little innovation has, however, occurred in treatment development and testing. Safety concerns are prominent and have a major influence on clinical practice and drug utilization.

Conclusions

While a research infrastructure has been successfully built for conducting pediatric clinical trials, important aspects such as long-term treatment effects, optimal sequencing and individualization of interventions, and integration of neuroscience findings into innovative, theory-driven treatment development remain to be addressed.

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The opinions and assertions contained in this chapter are the private views of the author and are not to be construed as official or as reflecting the views of the National Institute of Mental Health, the National Institutes of Health, or the Department of Health and Human Services.

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  1. Chief, Child and Adolescent Treatment and Preventive Intervention Research Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, Room 7147, 6001 Executive Blvd., MSC 9633, Bethesda, MD, 20892-9633, USA

    Benedetto Vitiello

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Vitiello, B. Research in child and adolescent psychopharmacology: recent accomplishments and new challenges. Psychopharmacology 191, 5–13 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-006-0414-3

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