BACKGROUND:

Aim was to determine the predictive factors for polypharmacy among inpatient children and adolescents with psychiatric disorders.

METHODS:

Blinded, case-note review of children and adolescents with ICD 10 diagnosis of psychiatric disorders on psychotropic medication was conducted. Data on demography, illness, and treatment was analyzed with univariate and multivariate techniques.

RESULTS:

Proscribing non-pharmacological interventions (OR = 4.7) and pro re nata medication (OR = 3.3), increased the risk of polypharmacy. Prescribing physical restraint reduced the risk of receiving multiple medications (OR = 0.3).

CONCLUSION:

Proscribing non-pharmacological interventions, pro re nata medication and physical restraints increased polypharmacy.