Introduction to the Fundamentals of Pediatric Psychopharmacology

The decision to prescribe psychotropic medication is often one that is quite nuanced. Challenges include the degree of access to mental health care, stigma associated with mental illness, and perceived lack of clarity regarding diagnoses or appropriate plans of action. Recognizing the role and potential limitations of medications in a comprehensive treatment plan is also important. Compared to adults, evidence for the use of psychotropic medications in youth is more limited, and youth are definitely not merely “miniature adults.” Physiologic differences can impact metabolism of medications, and developmental factors also affect the presentation of illness. In this chapter, we will discuss the relevant pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles as well as multifactorial biopsychosocial considerations to make when assessing youth and conducting the medication risk/benefit analysis.