Rise in antidepressant use among minors despite overall decline in medication use
Medication use among children and adolescents under 18 has declined over the past decade, but the use of specific drugs like antidepressants, ADHD medications and antacids is on the rise. This finding comes from a recent study by CM Health Fund.
CM analysed billing data for reimbursed medicines among its members aged 0 to 18 from 2013 to 2023 and found that at least one medication was reimbursed for 57 per cent of young CM members, a decrease from 62 per cent in 2013. Health insurance expenditure on medicines also dropped by 8 per cent over the same period. However, the study highlighted concerning trends in specific categories of medications, particularly those affecting the nervous system.
"Medicines for the nervous system, such as ADHD medication and antidepressants, have shown the most worrying increase between 2013 and 2023," the report notes. ADHD medication use rose by 31.5 per cent over the decade, while antidepressant use surged by 43 per cent. The study also observed a rise in antacid use, particularly among adolescents, increasing from 2.8 per cent in 2013 to 3.9 per cent in 2023.
Oral contraception
Conversely, the study recorded a notable decline in oral contraceptive use, which remains the most commonly used medication category among adolescents. Usage dropped by 16 per cent compared to 2013. Meanwhile, more young women under 18 are opting for hormonal IUDs, with reimbursements rising from 52 cases in 2013 to 483 in 2023.
CM chairman Luc Van Gorp underscored the need for expanded mental health care services for young people. "From 1 February, 2024, people under the age of 24 will have cheaper access to primary psychological care, but the current budget is insufficient to meet all needs," he stated. "We are asking for the offer to be strengthened so that all requests for help from children and adolescents can be met."
©PHOTO BELPRESS
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