How to address the placebo response in the prescription SSRIs and SNRIs in children and adolescents

Abstract

SSRIs and SNRIs are prescribed as first-line pharmacological treatment for common mental disorders in children and adolescents. Despite their efficacy, they have a high risk for adverse events and exhibit a substantial placebo response. This editorial provides some background on the current evidence on the topic and suggests to carefully weigh the benefits of SSRIs and SNRIs against their potential harms. Therefore, the authors present two different set of conclusions - one for clinical practice, and one for future research designs.

Keywords: Antidepressants; adolescents; children; efficacy; mental disorders; placebo response; safety.