Share Of Texas Foster Youth Prescribed Psychotropics Down From 31.4% In 2004 To 17.9% In 2019

The share of children in Texas foster care who are prescribed psychotropics for 60 days or longer has declined by approximately 43%, from 31.4% in 2004 to 17.9% in 2019. The share of children receiving medication regimens outside of the recommended criteria of the best practice parameters has also declined.

Since 2004, the state has been tracking the share of youth in foster care prescribed psychotropic medications, and the share using them long-term (more than 60 days) or in combinations. In particular, the state tracks “class polypharmacy,” which is defined as concurrent prescription for 60 days or . . .