Therapeutic Reference Ranges for Psychotropic Drugs in Children and Adolescents

Strategic Insights -

Research has been conducted to determine serum concentrations of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and atypical antipsychotics in children and adolescents. The study, led by Xenia M. Hart, aimed to provide guidance for the definition of therapeutic reference ranges in this age group. The researchers collected serum concentrations of various psychotropic drugs from a German child and adolescent psychiatric university hospital between 1999 and 2022. The data was then retrospectively analyzed, and the 25th to 75th interquartile ranges (IQRs) were calculated and compared with the therapeutic reference ranges defined for adults.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study analyzed serum concentrations of 10 psychotropic drugs, including SSRIs and atypical antipsychotics, in children and adolescents.
  • The 25th to 75th IQRs were calculated for each drug to determine the therapeutic reference ranges in this age group.
  • The IQRs found for fluvoxamine, sertraline, olanzapine, and aripiprazole were similar to published therapeutic ranges for adults.
  • However, the IQRs for citalopram, clozapine, risperidone, aripiprazole, and quetiapine were found to be lower in children and adolescents compared to adults.
  • The study concluded that age- and substance-specific therapeutic ranges need to be defined for children and adolescents.

Statistics:

  • A total of 618 serum level concentrations were examined in the study.
  • The IQRs for fluvoxamine, sertraline, olanzapine, and aripiprazole were similar to published therapeutic ranges for adults.
  • The IQRs for citalopram, clozapine, risperidone, aripiprazole, and quetiapine were found to be lower in children and adolescents compared to adults.
  • The study highlights the importance of defining therapeutic reference ranges for psychotropic drugs in children and adolescents.

Sources:

  • University of Heidelberg
  • Journal of Neural Transmission
  • NewsRx
  • Mental Health Weekly Digest
  • (Springer Wien, Prinz-Eugen-Strasse 8-10, A-1040 Vienna, Austria)