Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the outcome and predictors of outcome with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in outpatient children and adolescents with pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs).
Method: Clinic charts were reviewed for 89 outpatient youths with a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV) diagnosis of a PDD who were treated with SSRIs. Response was determined using the Clinical Global Impressions (CGI) scale. Side-effect and demographic data, including family history, were recorded.
Results: Forty-four point nine percent (44.9%) were determined to be much improved and considered responders. Fifty-four percent (54%) of the subjects demonstrated activation side effects. In 35.4% of these subjects, the activation side effects led to drug discontinuation. Pearson chi-squared and regression analysis demonstrated an association between SSRI response and a family history of PDD. There were no significant associations between clinical variables and activation side effects.
Conclusions: SSRI treatment led to modest response rate in this group of youths with PDDs. Activation side effects were frequent, often leading to treatment dropouts. Potential outcome associations include a family history of PDDs.
