Medication strategies in childhood aggression: A review

Abstract

Objective: To review studies of psychopharmacological management of aggression in common childhood psychiatric disorders. Method: Using OVID software, we searched Medline for studies that were undertaken in the last 30 years. Controlled and uncontrolled data are summarized for each condition. Results: A paucity of evidence-based information currently exists. Even so, specific indications from the existing literature can be suggested for several classes of psychotropics, particularly in conduct disorder (CD), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), mood disorders, and other conditions. Conclusions: Clinicians can use findings from reviewed controlled and, where necessary, uncontrolled studies to inform pharmacologic practice. This review offers suggestions for future research directions that will aid clinical practice.