The theory is that if you can prevent the somatic feeling of agitation, you can reduce the cognitive component of aggression as well. These medications, originally developed for the treatment of hypertension, work by interrupting the fight or flight sensation in the body, and are similar in this regard to the beta blocker propranololused off-label for aggression in adults. I generally start with alpha adrenergic agents when Im unsure about the cause of aggression, because these drugs work quickly and are fairly safe. The dictum for using medications in children, start low,Īdrenergic Agents. This population may become aggressive merely in response to rapid dose changes irrespective of the underlying disorder. In patients with autism, developmental disabilities or traumatic brain injury, slow all medication changes down substantially. ![]() So when you are having trouble achieving a response, you may want to start the diagnostic process over again with this in mind. ![]() Also, I find that often the most difficult to treat patients have unrecognized long-standing anxiety or learning disabilities. See the accompanying table for details about dosing and side effects.īefore discussing specific agents, it is important to note that conduct disorder and oppositional defiant disorder respond infrequently to medication alonegenerally it can only augment environmental and behavioral interventions. In this article, Ill discuss a practical approach to choosing and prescribing medications for childhood aggression. Greene for suggestions), you will have to turn to what is generally the second choiceusing medications. ![]() Once you have tried the various non-pharmacological approaches to aggression (see this months interviews with Dr.
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