What should you do once your child starts taking an antidepressant?

The FDA advises that doctors prescribe the smallest quantity of pills possible to help reduce the risk of deliberate or accidental overdose. Careful monitoring by parents, caregivers and health care professionals is important for any child or teenager taking an antidepressant for depression or any other condition.

The highest risk of suicidal thinking and behavior occurs:

• During the first few months of treatment with an antidepressant
• When the dosage is increased or decreased

Parents and caregivers should closely observe the child on a daily basis during these transition periods and watch for worrisome changes for the whole time the child takes antidepressants.

The FDA also recommends that your child receive close monitoring by a health care professional during the first few months of treatment, and ongoing monitoring throughout treatment. Frequency of contact with doctors or mental health professionals depends on your child's needs. Make sure you stick to your child's recommended appointment schedule.