The Evidence Base for Polypharmacy in ADHD

Topics: ADHD | aggression | Central Alpha Agonists | Combined Pharmacotherapy | Divalproex | polypharmacy | Risperidone | Stimulants

REVIEW OF: Baker M et al, J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol 2021;31(3):148–163 TYPE of Study: Literature review Psychotropic polypharmacy is increasingly the norm in clinical practice. We use it to address persistent symptoms or to target comorbid conditions, though we do so at the risk of increased side effects, more drug interactions, and worsened p

Principles of Verbal De-Escalation

Topics: aggression | Agitation | Emergency Department | Free Articles | verbal de-escalation

When our patients become agitated and threatening, we often think first about chemical or physical restraints—especially when staff’s physical safety seems at imminent risk. But it’s important to remember that coercive interventions can be humiliating and may lead to more agitation and violence. In fact, research indicates that restraints are corr

Unpacking Aggression Associated with ADHD

Topics: ADHD | aggression | Risperidone | Stimulants | Valproate

CCPR: You recently did a study on stepped treatment for ADHD and aggressive behavior (Blader JC et al, J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2021;60(2):236–251). It is riveting in its relevance to everyday practice. I am thinking of one school-age child who came to me after multiple trials of stimulants and mood stabilizers who was still very impulsively