Article: Studies quantify use of sleep aids in children: insomnia is cited as a major problem in young patients, of whom many, including preschoolers, are medicated.(Mental Health)

NEW YORK -- The use of sleep medications in children is considerable in clinical practice in inpatient and outpatient settings, data from two new studies show.

A survey of 1,271 practicing child psychiatrists indicates that 25% of school-age and 30% of adolescent outpatients with primary insomnia are being treated with sleep medication.

"Even 17% of preschoolers are being treated with medication," Dr. Judith Owens said at a psychopharmacology update sponsored by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

The survey respondents were members of AACAP, 47% of the respondents were female, 84% were white, and 58% were affiliated with a ...

Related newspaper, magazine, and journal articles:

 
 
Newsweek Harper's Magazine The Washington Post Chicago Tribune Crain's Chicago Business PRNewswire Pediatric News The Nation Advertising Age The Economist (US) A FREE trial gives you access to over 80 million articles! Access over 6,500 publications with a FREE trial!