Special Issues in the Psychopharmacological Management of Hispanic Americans

Despite the fact that Hispanics are becoming the largest minority in the United States, there is a paucity of studies of psychopharmacology in Hispanic Americans. However, drawing from many sources, it is possible to illustrate multiple issues pertinent to their treatment with psychotropic medications. This review addresses several of these issues, including the medical validity of the term Hispanic; some general characteristics of the Hispanic population and its use of medical and mental health services; clinical psychopharmacology in Hispanics (antidepressants and antipsychotics); available information on characteristics of the cytochrome system in Hispanics; some environmental factors that may affect drug response in Hispanics; and Hispanic attitudes regarding mental health and medication. The article ends with some recommendations for the physician treating Hispanic patients.