American children are already being prescribed various types

of medications at exceedingly high rates to begin with, but a new study conducted at Rutgers University finds that the frequency of off-label medication orders for children is on the rise as well.

“Off-label” refers to a medication being used to treat a different diagnosis or symptoms than it was approved to treat by the FDA. An example of an off-label med prescription for a child would be a doctor recommending anti-depressant medication for ADHD symptoms.

The research team were alarmed by their findings, and believe this study illustrates a glaring need for improved oversight and regulation when it comes to ensuring that children are prescribed safe, and effective, medication.

Source:StudyFinds