Trump and RFK Jr. Challenge Antidepressants and Weight Loss Drugs: What the Latest Science Reveals

After Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took over as Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, President Donald Trump signed an executive order. The order calls for a team to investigate the effects of antidepressants, antipsychotics, and obesity medications on children, suggesting these drugs may pose a risk to young people.

The order also created the “Make America Healthy Again” commission, which Kennedy will chair. The goal is to examine chronic diseases and the safety of certain medications in children.

One of the commission’s tasks is to evaluate the risks linked to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, stimulants, and weight-loss drugs. Kennedy has previously criticized these medications, even making controversial claims connecting antidepressant use to school shootings.

His focus also includes enhancing health and nutrition, but he has made unfounded claims regarding obesity treatments for young children, suggesting that good nutrition alone could solve America’s obesity problem. Some experts argue that this overlooks the benefits and proper context of these medications.

Doctors and organizations like the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry emphasize that these medications are typically safe and effective when used with other treatments. They advise parents to consult with healthcare professionals about any prescribed medications.

Dr. Justin Ryder, a pediatric chronic disease specialist, appreciates the intent behind the commission but has concerns about its focus. He believes that medical treatments should not be viewed primarily as exacerbating health issues.

Understanding Antidepressant Use in Children

SSRIs are one of the most commonly prescribed classes of antidepressants for children. Research indicates they can effectively treat anxiety and major depression disorders in younger patients.

There are also six second-generation antipsychotics approved for children, usually seen as safe but requiring careful dosing. Dr. Joseph Saseen points out that while these drugs can have side effects, they are considered safe in regulated doses.

Stimulants for ADHD are also mentioned in the executive order. Although they are effective, Saseen warns they can lead to addiction and are classified as controlled substances.

Dr. Asim Shah emphasizes that medications undergo rigorous testing before approval, ensuring their safety and effectiveness. Usually, these treatments are only given after other methods have been tried.

Shah stresses that successful treatment for children often combines medication with therapy and lifestyle changes, and using the word “threat” might misrepresent the benefits of these medications.

Concerns have been raised around Kennedy’s statements about antidepressants, especially when he drew comparisons to heroin withdrawal, which experts say is misleading and harmful to those with mental health issues.

They explain that very few individuals with mental health disorders become violent, countering the notion that antidepressants lead to violence. Instead, untreated mental illness is a larger concern.

Weight Loss Medications in Context

Currently, the FDA has approved six medications for treating obesity: orlistat, phentermine-topiramate, naltrexone-bupropion, liraglutide, semaglutide, and tirzepatide. Some are available for children over the age of 12, and one is approved for those over six with specific genetic disorders.

Kennedy’s push for better childhood nutrition highlights his stance that the obesity epidemic could be rapidly resolved with better food choices. He believes obesity medications shouldn’t be the go-to treatment for young kids.

Dr. Ryder points out that the current practice involves prescribing obesity medications along with nutritional guidance and support, ensuring a holistic approach to treatment.

The American Academy of Pediatrics supports the idea of integrating medication discussions into the treatment of overweight children and adolescents. However, Ryder insists that these medications alone are not a cure for obesity; they must accompany a committed effort towards healthier eating and active living.