Iatrogenic comorbidity in childhood and adolescence: new insights from the use of antidepressant drugs

CNS Drugs. 2014 Sep;28(9):769-74. doi: 10.1007/s40263-014-0184-0.

Abstract

The term "iatrogenic comorbidity" refers to unfavorable modifications in the course of an illness, with regard to its characteristics and responsiveness, which may be related to previous treatments. Some iatrogenic adverse events arising from either pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy cannot be subsumed under the traditional rubric of adverse effects and require careful evaluation. Children and adolescents are generally more likely to experience adverse health consequences after drug treatment. The use of antidepressant drugs in this age group may cause potential long-term detrimental effects, such as mood elevation that does not subside when drugs are discontinued and may predispose to the development of a bipolar disorder. The concept of iatrogenic comorbidity in children and adolescents has heuristic value in weighing potential benefits and risks associated particularly with psychotropic treatments.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Antidepressive Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Anxiety Disorders / drug therapy
  • Anxiety Disorders / epidemiology
  • Child
  • Comorbidity
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Iatrogenic Disease / epidemiology*
  • Male
  • Mood Disorders / drug therapy
  • Mood Disorders / epidemiology
  • Risk

Substances

  • Antidepressive Agents