Regulation and control of psychotropic drug prescriptions used by children in Brazil: A document analysis

Abstract

This article analyzed current Brazilian legislation and official documents regulating the prescription and dispensing of psychotropic drugs, identifying the control requirements for their use in children. The methodology adopted was document analysis combined with content analysis, in which 23 documents selected from searches on digital platforms and official government websites were evaluated. The analysis revealed three thematic categories: prescription and regulation of prescriptions, control systems and rational use of medicines. The rules governing the prescription of controlled medications are clearly defined in official documents. However, the control systems have presented gaps in data collection and recording. The absence of requirements for clarification on adverse effects, failures in information systems and pharmacovigilance reinforce the need for public policies aimed at improving systems and preventing the inappropriate use of psychotropic drugs in childhood.