Neuroleptic and other very serious adult psychiatric drugs have been being used “off-label” for children for a very long time. They’re now considering officially approving them.
Three blockbuster psychiatric drugs currently approved for adults also appear to work in adolescents, though federal health officials have concerns about their side effects.
The Food and Drug Administration is reviewing drugs from AstraZeneca PLC, Eli Lilly and Pfizer for use in patients between the ages 10 and 17. The drugs –already approved to treat schizophrenia and bipolar mania in adults — had combined sales of more than $7.4 billion last year. (Seroquel, Geodon and Zyprexa–Gianna’s edit)
FDA reviewers say they are wary of exposing youngsters to the drugs’ side effects, including weight gain and high blood sugar “because they may be exposed for many decades.”
Yeah they should be good and worried. Not just about weight and metabolic issues but serious brain damage and lowering of IQs, as well as a hugely diminished quality of life. Alternatives should be sought out. And that is where resources should be spent.
For more thoughts on this issue check Furious Seasons.
Update: this story is now in tons of my feeds. The disturbing common remark is, “these drugs seem to be effective in children.” What does effective mean? It stops unpleasant behavior by knocking the shit out of them. That’s what these drugs do. They “work” in adults the same way. CHEMICAL RESTRAINT. Hell yeah, they work real good.
One thing is for sure though. They will never HEAL anything. That is not what they do.
I have so many things that I want to say about this topic, but I am on a shitty connection right now. I will be posting much more on this tomorrow….
sick, sick, sick!!!