Predictive factors for polypharmacy among child and adolescent psychiatry inpatients

BACKGROUND Aim was to determine the predictive factors for polypharmacy among inpatient children and adolescents with psychiatric disorders. METHODS Blinded, case-note review of children and adolescents with ICD 10 diagnosis of psychiatric disorders on psychotropic medication was conducted. Data on demography, illness, and treatment was analyzed with univariate and multivariate techniques. RESULTS Proscribing non-pharmacological interventions (OR = 4.7) and pro re nata medication (OR = 3.3), increased the risk of polypharmacy. Prescribing physical restraint reduced the risk of receiving multiple medications (OR = 0.3). CONCLUSION Proscribing non-pharmacological interventions, pro re nata medication and physical restraints increased polypharmacy.