Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration

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

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&rType=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.

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The Center for Mental Health Services is a component of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, United States Department of Health and Human Services.