Psychiatric-Drug 'Deprescribing' Initiative
Advancing
On May 4, 2026, at a MAHA Institute mental-health summit, Kennedy launched an action plan targeting what he describes as overuse of psychiatric medications — “especially among children,” per The Hill via Louisiana First News. The plan centers on patient autonomy, mandatory informed consent and shared decision-making, and a shift toward what Kennedy calls “prevention, transparency and a more holistic approach to mental health.”
Under the plan, SAMHSA was tasked with producing a report on prescribing trends, and CMS issued guidance on reimbursing deprescribing care, tapering plans, and monitoring. Kennedy has long claimed psychiatric medications are overprescribed and has linked them to mass shootings — claims that medical reporting notes lack evidentiary support. Coverage by Drugs.com/HealthDay characterized the May 2026 launch as a plan to curb antidepressant overprescription.
Timeline
- May 4, 2026 — Kennedy launches the deprescribing action plan at a MAHA Institute mental-health summit.
- May 2026 — SAMHSA tasked with prescribing-trends report; CMS issues guidance on reimbursing deprescribing care.
