Off-label drug use in pediatrics and case study analysis

Topic: OFF-LABEL DRUG USE IN PEDIATRICS

Write a narrative in APA format that addresses the following:

1. Introduction

2.Explain the circumstances under which children should be prescribed drugs for off-label use. Be specific and provide examples.

3. Describe strategies to make the off-label use and dosage of drugs safer for children from infancy to adolescence.

4. Include descriptions and names of off-label drugs that require extra care and attention when used in pediatrics.

5. conclusion

Note: Discuss the above question thoroughly and follow the rubric accordingly

Examples of off-label drugs

Drug (Brand name)                                 Common on-label use                           Common off-label use

bupropion (Wellbutrin)                          depression                                             bipolar

diphenhydramine (Benadryl)                allergy sx, insomnia                               N/V related to pregnancy

escitalopram (Lexapro)                          depression, anxiety                               bipolar

fluoxetine (Prozac)                                 depression, OCD, bipolar                     autism spectrum disorders

montelukast (Singulair)                          asthma                                                    COPD

quetiapine (Seroquel)                            schizophrenia, bipolar                           insomnia

Case Study

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The client is an 8-year-old African American male who arrives at the ER with his mother. He is exhibiting signs of depression.

·
 Client complained of feeling “sad”

·
 Mother reports that teacher said child is withdrawn from peers in class

·
 Mother notes decreased appetite and occasional periods of irritation

·
 Client reached all developmental landmarks at appropriate ages

·
 Physical exam unremarkable

·
 Laboratory studies WNL

·
 Child referred to psychiatry for evaluation

MENTAL STATUS EXAM

Alert & oriented X 3, speech clear, coherent, goal directed, spontaneous. Self-reported mood is “sad”. Affect somewhat blunted, but child smiled appropriately at various points throughout the clinical interview. He denies visual or auditory hallucinations. No delusional or paranoid thought processes noted. Judgment and insight appear to be age-appropriate. He is not endorsing active suicidal ideation, but does admit that he often thinks about himself being dead and what it would be like to be dead.

You administer the Children’s Depression Rating Scale, obtaining a score of 30 (indicating significant d