NbN C&A 3.1.1

The NbN was developed in response to the recognition that the existing pharmacological nomenclature for psychotropic medications does not adequately reflect current scientific understanding nor support clinicians in neuroscience-informed prescribing practices. Frequently, clinicians prescribe "antidepressants" for anxiety disorders or "second-generation antipsychotics" for depression, which can lead to confusion and a lack of clarity regarding the underlying mechanisms involved.

The primary objective of NbN is to integrate recent advances in neuroscience into the terminology used for psychotropic medications. Its scope encompasses all drugs with central nervous system (CNS) indications, aiming to facilitate clinicians' identification of the most appropriate subsequent neuropsychopharmacological interventions based on a more precise understanding of drug action.

This proposed nomenclature endeavors to accurately reflect the current state of pharmacological knowledge; however, it acknowledges that it may not represent the definitive scientific consensus. The assembled taskforce deliberately chose to present a scientific interpretation rooted in the latest evidence rather than await absolute conclusions. This approach recognizes the urgent need for effective treatment in clinical settings, emphasizing that patient care cannot be delayed pending complete scientific certainty.

Consequently, this nomenclature is founded upon key considerations:

• The imperative to treat patients promptly
• The integration of contemporary neuroscience insights
• The expert judgment of taskforce members
• Recognition that pediatric populations are still developing, thus developmental factors such as hepatic and renal function and brain maturation must influence medication use and dosing

In developing NbN, emphasis has been placed on pharmacology and mechanisms of action. The nomenclature reflects current understanding of neurotransmitter systems, molecular targets, and pathways involved in psychotropic drug effects. Four clinically pertinent dimensions are incorporated:

1. Approved indications: Based on major regulatory bodies’ recommendations (e.g., FDA, EMA) applicable to specific age groups.
2. Efficacy and side effects: Highlighting instances where drugs lack formal approval for certain indications but are supported by evidence such as expert guidelines. The side effects section focuses on serious, life-threatening, or prevalent adverse effects.
3. Practical notes: Summarized clinical insights filtered through expert analysis.
4. Neurobiology: Derived from empirical data, providing a biological context for the medication’s action.

For those interested in further details regarding pharmacology, a direct link to the IUPHAR website—our collaborating partner—is provided for in-depth information.

This initiative is ongoing; we anticipate that gaps and omissions will be identified over time. Feedback from users, combined with responses from colleagues, emerging research reports, and new scientific findings, will inform subsequent updates to enhance the nomenclature’s accuracy and utility.

FiN N aims to embed cutting-edge neuroscience within a coherent and comprehensive naming framework for pediatric psychopharmacology. The taskforce hopes this system will support clinicians in making well-informed decisions regarding psychopharmacological treatment strategies and elucidate the rationale behind prescribing choices.