Our free newsletter
offers tips and tools
you need to create
a happier and
healthier family!

Categories


All Articles
CALL: (888) 972-7736

FDA approves drug for adolescent schizophrenia

By Staff Writer

After reviewing the findings of a six-week trial, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the drug paliperidone for the treatment of schizophrenia in adolescents, according to a recent article published by MedScape News.

The medication stimulates dopamine and serotonergic receptors in the brain, the news provider explained. While the FDA deemed the pills safe for adults five years ago, the organization now backs its use among adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17.

Medical professionals will now be able to prescribe the drug in doses relative to the patients' weight, although some side effects such as headache and insomnia have been reported, the news source noted.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, individuals who suffer from schizophrenia typically experience thought disorders or hallucinations, and many times believe that they hear voices in their heads or that people are conspiring against them.

Although the organization reports that little more than 1 percent of American adults are schizophrenic, researchers believe that the disorder may be the culmination of several other mental illnesses that present progressively more symptoms as a person ages.

Teens who suffer from schizophrenia may benefit from attending boarding schools, where professionals can monitor their well-being.

Share |