First-line antipsychotic in children according to the material is which medication?

• A. Risperdal
• B. Zyprexa
• C. Geodon
• D. Latuda

Answer: (A)

Risperidone is typically chosen first in children because it has the strongest and broadest set of pediatric data supporting its use and approved indications for younger patients. It effectively reduces psychotic symptoms and related behaviors, with a safety profile that is generally manageable in the pediatric population. While it can cause extrapyramidal symptoms and prolactin elevation, these risks are usually lower than with older, first-generation antipsychotics, and metabolic effects like weight gain are present but can be monitored and mitigated with careful dosing and lifestyle support. A long-acting injectable form also helps with adherence in some patients. Other options, such as olanzapine, have greater weight gain and metabolic concerns; ziprasidone carries QT prolongation considerations and less pediatric data; and lurasidone, though favorable metabolically, has less extensive pediatric evidence for schizophrenia, making risperidone the most supported starting choice.