Psychopharmacology of pediatric bipolar disorder.

This comprehensive literature review incorporates research studies evaluating the effectiveness of psychotropic medications in children and adolescents with pediatric bipolar disorder. Research articles were obtained using Medline. Open-label studies, prospective and retrospective chart reviews and randomized controlled trials evaluating the effectiveness of medication in pediatric bipolar disorder with greater than ten subjects are included in this article. Antipsychotics, anticonvulsants and lithium as monotherapy, as well as their use in combination treatment, were evaluated to determine their effectiveness in pediatric bipolar disorder. Clinical recommendations of medication and management strategies are made from a synthesis of the data. In addition, adherence concerns caused by adverse effects and nonresponse as they impact physical and mental health are addressed.