Psychiatric Bulletin (2003) 27: 407-410. doi: 10.1192/pb.27.11.407
© 2003 The Royal College of Psychiatrists
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Psychiatric Bulletin (2003) 27: 407-410
© 2003 The Royal College of Psychiatrists

Prescribing practices of community child and adolescent psychiatrists

Ursul A Doerry and Lindsey Kent

*Ursula Doerry Specialist Registrar in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Parkview Clinic, 60 Queensbridge Road, Moseley, Birmingham B13 8QE, Lindsey Kent Senior Lecturer, University of Birmingham

AIMS AND METHOD

A questionnaire was sent to all 55 community child and adolescent psychiatrists working in the West Midlands to examine the prescribing practices of community child psychiatrists, because most previous studies have included prescribing data from specialist (tier 4) services.

RESULTS

The survey had a good response rate (87%). The vast majority of child psychiatrists were prescribing stimulants and antidepressants, and over half were prescribing antipsychotics and melatonin. At least half of the consultants would consider prescribing an antipsychotic for the treatment of aggressive behaviour. One-third of consultants cited pressure on services as a reason for prescribing medication.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Community child psychiatrists were prescribing more medication than expected, which may have a considerable impact on referral rates to adult services in the future. It is concerning that the increased use of medication may be a reflection of pressure on services.




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