In the absence of more clinical studies, a specialist working with the National Gender Service (NGS) in Ireland has called for a far more cautious approach when prescribing puberty blockers to youngsters, reports RTE.
Injectable puberty blockers prevent the brain’s chemicals responsible for initiating physical changes, such the growth of facial hair or breast development.
Professor Donal O’Shea, a consultant endocrinologist at St. Vincent’s University and St. Columcille’s Hospitals, stated that youngsters who have gender identity issues shouldn’t be prescribed puberty blockers on a regular basis, reports RTE.
He was reacting to NHS England’s announcement that the exclusive use of puberty blockers for youngsters will be in clinical research; they will no longer be prescribed at gender identification clinics.
The UK government stated that it was pleased with the “landmark decision” and that it will help guarantee that care is provided in the “best interests of the child” and is supported by evidence, reports RTE.
Clinical studies on the appropriate use of puberty blockers are being planned, according to Prof. O’Shea. Dr. Paul Moran, an Irish consultant psychiatrist who works at the NGS, is engaged in the design of the NHS trial.
Professor O’Shea advised families to wait for research on the most effective way to utilise puberty blockers in kids.
According to him, for certain kids, puberty blockers could play a part in their overall treatment, reports RTE.
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