Treating Bipolar I Disorder in Adolescents

Stopping the mood swings...

Adolescents may be qualified to participate in this treatment study if they are experiencing symptoms of Bipolar Disorder or periods of mania which last for one week and include:

• an abnormally "high" or irritable mood
• decreased need for sleep
• racing thoughts
• increased activity
• engaging in high-risk activities

Course of Treatment

Following a brief screening to determine eligibility to participate, parents will be interviewed and adolescents will receive a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. Those diagnosed with Bipolar I Disorder will be treated with mood stabilizing medications which have been used in the treatment of Bipolar I Disorder in adults. Once stable for a six month period adolescents will enter a double-blind trial of medication in which the adolescent, parent, and research clinician is unaware if the medication dosage is remaining constant or gradually being tapered and discontinued. At any time a recurrence of mania or depressive symptoms occurs they are withdrawn from the study and receive prompt treatment. Treatment provided during the course of the study is free of charge.

Qualifications of Investigators

Neal Ryan, M.D., Joaquim Puig-Antich Professor in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

Boris Birmaher, M.D., Associate Professor of Psychiatry

For more information or referral contact Mary Kay Gill, RN, MSN, tel: 624-3588