Short report

Predictive factors for polypharmacy among child and adolescent psychiatry inpatients

Paul SS Russell, Christina George and Priya Mammen

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Christian Medical College, Vellore 632 002, India

Clinical Practice and Epidemiology in Mental Health 2006, 2:25doi:10.1186/1745-0179-2-25

Published:	22 September 2006

Abstract

Background

Aim was to determine the predictive factors for polypharmacy among inpatient children and adolescents with psychiatric disorders.

Methods

Blinded, case-note review of children and adolescents with ICD 10 diagnosis of psychiatric disorders on psychotropic medication was conducted. Data on demography, illness, and treatment was analyzed with univariate and multivariate techniques.

Results

Proscribing non-pharmacological interventions (OR = 4.7) and pro re nata medication (OR = 3.3), increased the risk of polypharmacy. Prescribing physical restraint reduced the risk of receiving multiple medications (OR = 0.3).

Conclusion

Proscribing non-pharmacological interventions, pro re nata medication and physical restraints increased polypharmacy.