Bipolar disorder is characterized by mood instability marked with periods of mania and depression. According to Dr. Annette Lansford, a clinical professor of pediatrics at the University of Illinois School of Medicine, bipolar disorder affects one percent of children and can be difficult to treat. Children most commonly present with mixed episodes and frequent short periods of intense emotional ability and irritability rather than classic euphoria. Medication to stabilize moods and manage symptoms is the first line of treatment for pediatric bipolar disorder.
Abilify
Abilify is an atypical antipsychotic and is FDA-approved for the treatment of pediatric bipolar disorder. According to information provided by the manufacturer, Abilify is thought to work by affecting the activity of some key brain chemicals, adjusting dopamine, instead of completely blocking it, and adjusting serotonin. For pediatric patients ages 10 to 17, the initial dosage is 2mg/day, with a recommended dosage of 10mg/day, and a maximum dosage of 30mg/day. A low incidence of side effects is reported in clinical trials among pediatric patients, the most common being flat affect and fatigue.
Depakote
Valproic acid, known as Depakote, is the most commonly used anticonvulsant for bipolar patients, and it is highly effective, according to information from the medication guide provided by the FDA. Depakote is officially approved for children age ten and older; but is prescribed for pediatric bipolar patients under age ten, as well. Common side effects include drowsiness, weight gain, dizziness, tremors, nausea and diarrhea. Regular blood tests are needed to assess blood levels of Depakote.
Risperdal
Risperdal is an antipsychotic used with children and adolescents suffering from bipolar disorder. According to Annette Lansford, MD, the use of Risperdal has increased significantly over the past decade, and patients commonly continue treatment with Risperdal for an extended period of time. Risperdal was originally used to treat episodes of mania, but has now been FDA-approved to treat either manic, depressive or mixed episodes of bipolar disorder. Children may experience drowsiness, blurred vision, dizziness, weight gain or digestive problems. Most side effects are more of an annoyance than a medical problem and often fade as the body becomes accustomed to Risperdal.
