For Immediate Release
Washington, D.C., July 11, 2008 - The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry President-Elect Laurence Greenhill, M.D., in collaboration with allied professionals, discussed the risks and benefits of antiepileptic medications at the FDA's Joint Committee Meeting of the Peripheral and CNS Advisory Committee and Psychopharmacologic Advisory Committee. The meeting was convened to review meta-analysis data on suicidality from antiepileptic medication trials.
Contact: Erin Baker, Communications Director
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Adam Lowe, Communications Coordinator
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"The data reviewed strongly indicate a need for more large scale, long-term studies on the incidence of side effects," said Dr. Greenhill.
The AACAP urged the FDA to consider all available data when determining decisions about product labeling, especially in regard to black box warnings. Product labeling decisions, and the means by which decisions are communicated, influence physicians' prescribing practices and patient care. The AACAP also asked the FDA to consider the demonstrated effectiveness of antiepileptic medications.
"These medications are lifesaving for many people with neurological disorders," said Dr. Greenhill. "Patients who take these medications could experience life threatening effects if they discontinue medication without physician involvement."
In addition to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the American Psychiatric Association, American Academy of Neurology, Epilepsy Therapy Project, and American Epilepsy Society were represented at the FDA hearing. Click here to read Dr. Greenhill's full testimony.
To interview a child and adolescent psychiatrist about psychopharmacology, please contact Adam Lowe at alowe@aacap.org.
Representing over 7,500 child and adolescent psychiatrists nationwide, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) is the leading authority on children's mental health. AACAP members actively research, diagnose, and treat psychiatric disorders affecting children, adolescents, and their families.
