What is the first-line treatment for depression in children?

Fluoxetine is considered the first-line treatment for depression in children, primarily due to its favorable safety profile and the extensive research supporting its efficacy in this population. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, thus helping to elevate mood and alleviate depressive symptoms.

Fluoxetine is well-tolerated in children and adolescents, making it a preferred choice among healthcare providers. Research demonstrates that it is effective in treating major depressive disorder in children aged 8 and older, and it has been approved for use in this age group by regulatory agencies.

Other options, such as Citalopram, although effective, do not have the same level of extensive research and approval specifically for children as Fluoxetine. Amitriptyline and Nortriptyline, both tricyclic antidepressants, are less commonly used for pediatric depression due to their side effects and the potential for toxicity, making SSRIs like Fluoxetine a safer and more suitable choice for this age group.