Expert: Joyce A. Anthony - 10/20/2010

Question
My son was diagnosed when he was 5 with ADHD,(he is now 10) last year had to have him commited to a pshyiatric center after it took five teachers to hold him down. At that time they said he was also bi-polar. He started showing signs at 2 that something was different, and he has begun to show those same signs again am not sure if it the Bi-polar or ADHD and am not sure what are the best medicines are to help it. He is currently on (2)Depakote 125 at bedtime, with clondine, and (1) 54mg concerta. When he goes into these fits they go any where from crying to screaming, throwing things, and hurting himself. I have never dealt with this before so I am unsure what to do anymore, any and all advice would be appreciated.

Answer
Karen:

Many kids do have both ADHD and bipolar disorder.  It sounds like your son is showing more signs of the bipolar disorder, however.  The extra strength, force of the rages, etc...

Many medications can cause a bipolar child to become even more depressed--and kids show depression by rages or other acting out behaviors.  The rages are an indication of the pain going on inside.

Talk to the doctor about changing his medication completely. The Concerta can aggravate bipolar disorder and the Clondine worsen depression in juveniles.  Ask about the possibility of a combination of Seroquel and Lamictal.  If he still has trouble sleeping, ask about Trazadone.  A very low dosage should be helpful.

Until medication is adjusted and your son is once again stabilized, it can be scary.  Is there a support group for parents in your area you might be able to join to help for now?


                    Joyce A. Anthony