Behavioral Health News

News Archives

 

SSRI Citralopram Does Not Appear Useful for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

SSRIs are among the most frequently used medications for children with autism. However a recent study in the Archives of General Psychiatry suggests that the SSRI citalopram does not appear useful for repetitive behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorder. Click here for the Wall Street Journal report on this study.

Study Shows CBT Has No Preventative Effects in Adolescents Whose Parents Were Currently Depressed

Click here for the Journal Watch Psychiatry summary.

 

Cognitive behavioral therapy plus sertraline (Zoloft) helps kids with anxiety

According to a recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, both cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and sertraline (Zoloft) reduce the severity of anxiety in children with anxiety disorders. However, a combination of the two therapies has a superior response. Click here to view an MSNBC article summarizing the NEJM findings.

FDA issues warning of increased suicide ideation for patients who take antiepileptic drugs

According to a December 16, 2008 FDA study, taking antiepileptic drugs doubles the risk for suicide ideation as compared to placebo. Antiepileptic drugs are prescribed as treatment for epilepsy, bipolar illness, and mood problems. The FDA advised healthcare providers to notify patients, their families, and caregivers of the potential increase in suicidal thoughts in patients who take antiepileptic medications. These patients should be monitored for changes in behavior and suicidality. Click here to view the FDA press release.

Accessing Children's Mental Health Services in Massachusetts: Workforce Capacity Assessment October 29, 2009

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Foundation released a report that assesses licensed behavioral health workforce supply and capacity in Massachusetts. The report recommends that both public and private insurers share the financing of the Massachusetts Child Psychiatry Access Project (MCPAP). Click here to download a PDF of the report.