Research demonstrates a general trend of increasing prescriptions for psychotropic medications for children. In fact, the practice of prescribing this class of drugs has increased dramatically for children with behavioral and emotional problems over the last 20 years, a trend evident for younger age groups – even preschoolers.
In this policy brief, First Focus examines the practice of prescribing medications – specifically, atypical
antipsychotics (second generation antipsychotics) – a class of psychotropic agents – for children on Medicaid. Our key findings and policy recommendations are highlighted here.