Depression in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes

Depression in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a growing area of discussion. A diagnosis of T1D requires pediatric patients and their families to make drastic lifestyle changes. Improper coping skills can negatively affect the patient’s life and jeopardize overall health, as signaled by poor glycemic control and A1C readings. The mainstay of treatment for depression in pediatric patients with T1D is psychotherapy. Medication is warranted in certain cases, and currently only two agents have FDA indications for pediatric depression: fluoxetine and escitalopram. The use of antidepressants in pediatric patients with T1D requires thorough counseling by a pharmacist to ensure optimal outcomes.