This innovative new resource provides a game-changing new approach in managing the complicated issues surrounding prescribing and monitoring psychopharmacological medications in children and teens.

The new concept involves creating different levels of drugs. Level 1 drugs can be confidently prescribed by primary care physicians, and the book gives guidance on starting, dosing, monitoring, and managing adverse reactions.  Level 2 drugs are to be prescribed only by psychiatrists or those practicing paediatricians who have experience and comfort doing so.  The book provides guidance for primary care physicians on monitoring specific Level 2 medications their patients may be taking.

It also provides resources on clinical assessment, preparation, and conceptual framework for prescribing; what to do if the medication isn't working; and managing multiple medications.

The compact reference book will be accompanied by a digital tool allowing the physician to quickly access information on specific conditions and medications.

Table of Contents:

• Introduction
• Part 1—Conceptual Framework
• Chapter 1—Conceptual Framework for Prescribing Psychotropic Medications
• Background
• Rationale for Conceptual Framework
• Group 1 Medications for ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression
• Specific Rationale
• Group 2 Medications
• Group 3 Medications
• Part 2—Practical Guidance
• Chapter 2—Assessment
• Overview
• General Clinical Guidance
• Assessment
• Formulation and Feedback
• Chapter 3—Prescribing Medications: Getting Started
• Part 3—Group 1 Medications for Specific Diagnoses: ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression
• Chapter 4—Group 1 Medications for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
• General Guidance
• Methylphenidate Preparations
• Amphetamine Preparations
• Guanfacine Preparations
• Clonidine Preparations
• Atomoxetine
• Summary
• Chapter 5—Group 1 Medications for Anxiety and Depression General Guidance
• General Guidance
• Group 1 Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
• Summary
• Part 4—Group 2 (FDA-Approved Antipsychotics and Mood Stabilizers) and Group 3 (All Other) Medications
• Chapter 6—Group 2 Medications: Antipsychotics and Mood Stabilizer
• Rationale
• Antipsychotics
• The Mood Stabilizer Lithium
• Summary
• Chapter 7—Group 3 Medications
• Other Antidepressants
• Other Antipsychotics
• Other Mood Stabilizers
• Anxiolytics
• Sleep Aids
• Futures Considerations
• Part 5—Advanced Topics
• Chapter 8—What to Do When Treatment Is Not Successful
• The Limits of Evidence-Based Treatments and Protocols
• Reassess Diagnoses
• Incomplete or Inaccurate Reports
• Phenomenological or Nosologic Issues
• Reassess Non-diagnostic Issues and Concerns
• Reconsider Psychotherapy(ies) or Therapist
• Reconsider Medication
• When to Consider Group 2 Antipsychotics or Lithium
• When to Consider Group 3 Medications Without FDA Approval for Use in Youth
• When to Consider Drug Levels or Genetic Testing
• When to Consider Consultation or a Second Opinion
• When to Consider Referral for All or Part of the Patient’s Ongoing Behavioral Care
• Appendixes
• Appendix A—Assessment and Symptom Monitoring Tools
• Appendix B—Resources for Clinicians
• Appendix C—Training Resources for Clinicians
• Appendix D—Quality Ratings for Psychotherapies and Efficacy Data for Medications
• Appendix E—Resources for Caregivers
• Appendix F—Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Complete Criteria of Select Diagnosis
• Index