Medication management is one component of the comprehensive bio-psycho-social treatment plan for our residents. The decision to start a medication is only made after a careful consideration of the risks and benefits of the proposed medication regimen. Safety of the child is of utmost importance. The goal of treatment is to use as few medications as possible, and to use the smallest effective dose.

Every medication carries certain side effects. We follow protocols to routinely monitor for side effects to certain medications. These protocols include periodic AIMS (Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scales) assessments, as well as periodic blood tests. Blood tests may include fasting lipid levels, fasting glucose levels, renal function tests, liver function tests, thyroid function tests and electrolyte levels.

Typically, residents see a psychiatrist once a week. Here are some examples of the medications our board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrists prescribe:

• Antidepressants/Antianxiety medications
• ADHD medications including
• Mood stabilizers and antipsychotics

Other medications we may use include sleep aids and as-needed medications .