AHRQ GUIDE ON OFF LABEL USE OF ATYPICAL ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATIONS

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CMHS Consumer Affairs E-News July 12, 2007 Vol. 07-107

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AHRQ Guide on Off Label Use of Atypical Antipsychotic Medications

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has released a

clinician summary guide on the off label use of atypical antipsychotic

medications. To view, see:

http://effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/reports/topic.cfm?topic=8 & sid=34 & rTy

pe=9

From the introduction:

Atypical antipsychotics are used primarily for schizophrenia and bipolar

mania. They are also prescribed " off label " for symptoms like agitation,

anxiety, psychotic episodes, and obsessive behaviors. These drugs can

cause serious side effects. Evaluating research about how well atypical

antipsychotics work for off-label conditions can help you weigh the

benefits and risks of these drugs. The table at the end of the summary

gives information on drug dosage and price.