Medication for Bipolar and ADHD in Children

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and bipolar disorder symptoms look very similar in children. However, the symptoms are managed very differently. If a child has symptoms severe enough to interfere with functioning, treatment with medication can be very beneficial. The use of medications in children can be controversial, therefore the risks and benefits of medical intervention must be considered by parents and professionals.

Stimulants

• Taking a stimulant for ADHD in children is the most common treatment prescribed. Stimulants such as Concerta, Ritalin, Adderall or Focalin help children with ADHD improve focus, attend to tasks, complete work and accomplish more than if symptoms go untreated. Care should be supervised if this medication is prescribed for children with bipolar disorder, as stimulants may exacerbate symptoms.

Central Alpha-Agonists

• Taking a central alpha-agonist for ADHD in children is another treatment that helps with the hyperactive/impulsive symptoms. Medications such as Tenex and clonidine work to calm children and help them attend better. These medications are also effective in managing symptoms of bipolar disorder in children.

Selective Serotonin Inhibitors

• Selective serotonin inhibitors can sometimes help manage symptoms of ADHD in children.
  SSRIs are antidepressant medications, such as Prozac or Zoloft, that can improve symptoms of inattention and anxiety in children. Children with bipolar disorder may experience an exacerbation of symptoms if prescribed this medication.

Mood Stabilizers

• Mood stabilizers help manage symptoms of bipolar disorder in children. Medications such as Tegretol, Depakote and lithium help to keep cyclical moods under control. Typically, these medications require special monitoring and periodic blood work to check the levels of medications in the child's system and preventative control of effects on the liver.

Antipsychotics

• Antipsychotic medications can help manage symptoms of bipolar disorder in children. The name of this class of medications can be misleading, as medications such as Risperdal, Abilify or Zyprexa are not only used for psychotic symptoms but also to boost other agents that control mood swings.