What medicines are prescribed to 8 year old bipolar children and what works best other than serequel?

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) recommends that medications for bipolar disorder in children and adolescents should be used in conjunction with psychotherapy. The AACAP recommends the following medications for children and adolescents with bipolar disorder:

Antipsychotics: Olanzapine (Zyprexa)

Mood stabilizers: Lithium, valproate (Depakote), carbamazepine (Tegretol), lamotrigine (Lamictal)

Antidepressants: Fluoxetine (Prozac), citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), sertraline (Zoloft)

The choice of medication will depend on the individual child's symptoms and response to treatment. There is no one "best" medication for bipolar disorder in children and adolescents. The AACAP recommends that medications be started at a low dose and gradually increased until the child's symptoms are controlled.

It is important to note that medications for bipolar disorder can have side effects. These side effects can include weight gain, sedation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, headache, dizziness, and rash. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of medication with your child's doctor before starting treatment.

In addition to medication, psychotherapy is also an important part of treating bipolar disorder in children and adolescents. Psychotherapy can help children and adolescents learn how to manage their symptoms and cope with the challenges of living with bipolar disorder.