pediatrics
Bipolar Disorder in Children and Adolescents
Key Points
Bipolar disorder is characterized by alternating periods of mania, depression, and normal mood, each lasting for weeks to months at a time. Bipolar disorder typically begins during mid-adolescence through the mid-20s; it is rare in children. Typically, onset is insidious; children have a history of being very temperamental and difficult to manage. In adolescents and prepubertal children, treat manic or agitated episodes with antipsychotics first since these medications work quickly, followed by mood stabilizers to prevent relapses, and SSRIs and psychotherapy to treat depressive episodes. 