Introduction

Psychotropic medications—used for conditions like ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia—can be lifesaving. But for African Americans, access, usage, and outcomes are shaped by unique challenges and disparities that often go unnoticed.

Racial Gaps in Mental Health 

Studies show Black, Asian, and Latino men are less likely than White men to report using psychotropic medications. While this might sound positive, it often reflects deeper issues—like stigma, lack of culturally competent care, and mistrust of the medical system. Women’s experiences are even less represented in research, leaving major gaps in understanding. 

From “Racial Disparities in Psychotropic Medication Use” — Pierre, Thorpe, Dinwiddie, & Gaskin, 2014)

Growing Concerns for Children

Preschoolers are increasingly being prescribed medications like antipsychotics and stimulants, often without trying therapy first. While White children in foster care or with disabilities are more likely to receive these prescriptions, Black and Latino children face more barriers to access—raising questions about both overuse and under-treatment.

(From “Psychotropic Drug Use in Children” — Fontanella et al., 2013)

Impact on Brain Development & Pregnancy

Psychotropic drugs can cross the placenta, potentially affecting a baby’s brain development, prematurity risk, and cognitive skills. Despite these concerns, research in diverse populations is still limited, making it harder to fully understand the long-term effects (Hjorth, Lupattelli, Nordeng, et al., 2021; Hjorth, et al., 2021)

Side Effects, Risks, & Misuse

These medications can alter behavior in unexpected ways—impacting mood, relationships, and daily functioning. Some aren’t even FDA-approved for children, yet are still used in youth treatment centers.

Risks also include increased suicidal thoughts in certain disorders and higher overdose rates, especially for people taking multiple prescriptions or high doses.

(From “Psychotropic Medication Control” — Elmore, 2005; “Reducing Psychotropic Medications” — Huefner et al., 2014; “Suicidal Behavior in Mood Disorders” — Tondo & Baldessarini, 2016; “Exposure to Psychotropic Meds Prior to Overdose” — Okumura et al., 2015)

Medication Adherence Matters

Skipping doses or stopping medication too soon is common, particularly among younger women, those facing stigma, or individuals with substance use. Without consistent monitoring, the benefits of medication can be lost—and health risks can grow.

(From “Medication Non-adherence” — Gebeyehu et al., 2019)

Summary

There isn’t enough U.S.-based research on how psychotropic medications affect Black specifically. To create better outcomes, we need:

• More culturally responsive mental health providers

• Greater access to non-medication therapies

• Stronger research focused on racial disparities

• Until then, honest conversations and informed choices remain key to protecting mental health in the Black community.

Additional Resources