Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Psychiatric Medications for Children and Adolescents

  1. What is the medication name? Is it known by other names?
  2. What is known about its helpfulness with other children who have a similar condition as my child?
  3. How will the medication help my child? How long before I see improvement?
  4. What are the most common side effects? What are the rare side effects?
  5. Is the medication addictive?
  6. What is the recommended dosage and how often is it taken?
  7. Are there any laboratory tests that need to be done before my child begins taking this medication?
  8. Will a child and adolescent psychiatrist be monitoring my child’s response to medication and make dosage changes if necessary? How often will progress be checked and by whom?
  9. Are there any other medications or foods that my child should avoid while taking the medication?
  10. Are there any activities that my child should avoid while taking the medication?
  11. How long will my child need to take this medication? How will the decision be made to stop this medication?
  12. What do I do if a problem develops (e.g., if my child becomes ill, doses are missed, or side effects develop)?
  13. What is the cost of the medication (generic vs. brand name)?
  14. Does my child’s school nurse need to be informed about this medication?

Source: Facts for Families, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

If you or someone you know would like more information on mental illness or wish to request an educational presentation, please contact:

NAMI IOWA (Alliance for the Mentally Ill of Iowa)
5911 Meredith Drive Suite E
Des Moines IA 50322-1903
Phone: (515) 254-0417 or (800) 417-0417 IOWA ONLY
Fax: (515) 254-1103
Email: info@namiiowa.com