Safety Profile of the Use of Second Generation Antipsychotics in the Child and Adolescent Population

The search for novel, effective, and safe psychotropic medications for use in children and adolescents is an ongoing journey. Specifically, several atypical antipsychotics have received FDA indications for use in children and adolescents, although carry the risk of potentially serious side effects such as extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia, weight gain, metabolic syndrome, and symptoms of hyperprolactinemia. Three newer antipsychotics – asenapine, iloperidone, and lurasidone – have been considered by some as alternatives to use in children and adolescents with various psychiatric conditions. However, the data on the use of these medications in this population is limited. We review the current literature regarding the use of these agents in children and adolescents. Although these medications may have similar properties to current agents with approved indications, there is not sufficient evidence at this time to recommend their use in children and adolescents. More research is needed regarding the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of these medications in the pediatric population.