Many DCF Kids Take Anti-Depressants

Many DCF Kids Take Anti-Depressants

POSTED: 4:50 pm EDT April 15, 2005

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Twenty-five percent of the foster children under
the care of the Florida Department of Children and Families are being
treated with powerful mood-altering drugs.

Eight percent take three or more antidepressants at the same time.

One state lawmaker is concerned so many kids are getting psychotropic
drugs.

Rep. Tim Ryan is pushing legislation that would tighten the state's
rules for allowing children to take antidepressants.

He claims the kids are being given medications that are not
appropriate for the conditions they have.

Ryan said his plan will give the state and judges more oversight over
doctors that administer drugs to children in DCF's care.

He said the measure also helps ensure that kids get the counseling
services they need.
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