Adjunctive topiramate treatment for pediatric bipolar disorder: a retrospective chart review

A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Adjunctive Topiramate in Adolescents With Co-Occurring Bipolar and Cannabis Use Disorders

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of adjunctive topiramate (TPM) for the treatment of cannabis use disorder in adolescents with bipolar I disorder.

Method

We conducted a 16-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled investigation of quetiapine plus TPM (median dose = 208 mg) vs quetiapine plus placebo in adolescents with bipolar I and cannabis use disorder. All subjects participated in a Motivational Interview and Compliance Enhancement Therapy. The primary outcome measure was change in weekly cannabis use over a 16-week treatment period using the Timeline Followback. The secondary outcome measure was the baseline-to-endpoint total score change in the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS).

Results

A total of 75 participants completed at least 1 post-baseline assessment (TPM = 38, placebo = 37). There was a significant time-by-treatment effect over the 16-week treatment period, with baseline-adjusted treatment differences in favor of the TPM group over time (p < .001). Although there was no difference in baseline-to-endpoint YMRS total score change between groups (p = .342), there was as significant decline in YMRS total score within both groups (p < .0001). There was a significant positive effect for alcohol use (p < .001) and nicotine use (p = .033) in the TPM group. More participants in the TPM group experienced appetite decrease (p = .032) and excitement (p = .025). Participants in the placebo group experienced greater weight gain (p = .010).

Conclusion

Treatment with TPM adjunctive to quetiapine and a Motivational Interview and Compliance Enhancement Therapy is associated with a greater decrease in cannabis use and less weight gain. TPM is a well-tolerated and efficacious treatment for cannabis use disorder in adolescents with bipolar I disorder.

Clinical trial registration information

Efficacy Study of Quetiapine Plus Topiramate for Reducing Cannabis Consumption and Bipolar Mania; https://clinicaltrials.gov/; NCT00393978.

Diversity & Inclusion Statement

We worked to ensure sex and gender balance in the recruitment of human participants. We worked to ensure race, ethnic, and/or other types of diversity in the recruitment of human participants. We worked to ensure that the study questionnaires were prepared in an inclusive way. One or more of the authors of this paper self-identifies as a member of one or more historically underrepresented racial and/or ethnic groups in science.

Differential Tractography: A Biomarker for Neuronal Function in Neurodegenerative Disease

GM1 gangliosidosis is an ultra-rare inherited neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disorder caused by biallelic mutations in the GLB1 gene. GM1 is uniformly fatal and has no approved therapies, although clinical trials investigating gene therapy as a potential treatment for this condition are underway. Novel outcome measures or biomarkers demonstrating the longitudinal effects of GM1 and potential recovery due to therapeutic intervention are urgently needed to establish efficacy of potential therapeutics. One promising tool is differential tractography, a novel imaging modality utilizing serial diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) to quantify longitudinal changes in white matter microstructure. In this study, we present the novel use of differential tractography in quantifying the progression of GM1 alongside age-matched neurotypical controls. We analyzed 113 DWI scans from 16 GM1 patients and 32 age-matched neurotypical controls to investigate longitudinal changes in white matter pathology. GM1 patients showed white matter degradation evident by both the number and size of fiber tract loss. In contrast, neurotypical controls showed longitudinal white matter improvements as evident by both the number and size of fiber tract growth. We also corroborated these findings by documenting significant correlations between cognitive global impression (CGI) scores of clinical presentations and our differential tractography derived metrics in our GM1 cohort. Specifically, GM1 patients who lost more neuronal fiber tracts also had a worse clinical presentation. This result demonstrates the importance of differential tractography as an important biomarker for disease progression in GM1 patients with potential extension to other neurodegenerative diseases and therapeutic intervention.

A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study of Topiramate in Manic Adolescents Treated with Olanzapine

Objective: To conduct a pilot study to examine topiramate for the treatment of weight gain associated with olanzapine in manic adolescents with bipolar disorder. Methods: We conducted a 12-week double-blind randomized placebo-controlled pilot study of topiramate (300-400 mg/day) versus placebo in manic youth (ages 10-18 years) with bipolar disorder who were treated with olanzapine (10-20 mg/day). The primary outcome measure was gender- and weight-normed change in body mass index (BMI z-score). Results: Thirty manic adolescents were treated with olanzapine and were randomized to either topiramate (n = 16) or placebo (n = 14). There was a significantly greater increase in BMI z-scores in the placebo group (0.28 standard deviations [SDs]) compared with the topiramate group (0.10 SDs) when analyzed by longitudinal regression (p = 0.049). The placebo group had greater increases in raw BMI and weight (2.25 kg/m² and 6.9 kg, respectively) compared with the topiramate (0.99 kg/m² and 2.9 kg) group (p = 0.011 for BMI, p = 0.016 for weight). The most common adverse events in the topiramate group were headache (n = 7, 44%), gastrointestinal upset (n = 3, 19%), and muscle stiffness (n = 3, 19%). Conclusions: Topiramate may minimize the weight gain associated with olanzapine treatment in adolescents with bipolar disorder. Moreover, topiramate in combination with olanzapine was well tolerated. Larger studies that are adequately powered are necessary to determine the efficacy of topiramate for second-generation antipsychotic-related weight gain. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier number NCT00394095.

Psychiatric Diseases in Children and Adolescents

Pharmacotherapy of psychiatric illnesses in children and adolescents has grown significantly over the last few decades. However, the body of research examining pharmacological treatments for psychiatric illnesses is much smaller in children and adolescents than it is in adults. As most treatments for psychiatric disorders are more effective if started early in the course of illness, treatment options for youth are especially important in order to ensure better treatment outcomes. This chapter discusses currently approved medications to treat psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents. Research on medications that may be effective treatments but are not yet FDA approved is also discussed. The medications are broken down into major categories used in youth with psychiatric disorders including antidepressants, mood stabilizers, ADHD medications, and antipsychotics.

Psychopharmacology of Bipolar Disorders in Children and Adolescents

Bipolar disorder is a debilitating illness that often leads to functional impairment when untreated. Monotherapy with mood stabilizers is preferable, although combination therapy may be necessary in refractory cases. Most studies focus on the use of lithium, anticonvulsants, and second-generation antipsychotics in the treatment of acute manic or depressive phases, as well as maintaining adequate response after the episode. More research is needed in the area of psychopharmacology of pediatric bipolar disorder to bridge the gap between clinical needs and the available data.

Topiramate, zonisamide and weight loss in children and adolescents prescribed psychiatric medications: A medical record review

BACKGROUND

Childhood obesity is a growing epidemic that is contributed to by the use of psychopharmacological agents, such as antipsychotics. This study represents a preliminary investigation into the effectiveness of two anticonvulsants that were hypothesized to reduce weight in a pediatric sample seeking treatment at a psychiatric clinic.

METHODS

The electronic medical records of a university-based child and adolescent psychiatric clinic were reviewed for patients who were first prescribed either topiramate or zonisamide between 1 July 2011 and 30 June 2013. Based on inclusionary criteria, the review identified 47 children or adolescents.

RESULTS

Multilevel modeling was utilized for study analyses. Including the full sample and controlling for confounders, anticonvulsant dosage was uniquely associated with an average reduction in body mass index of 1.3 (dosages above 200 mg) to 4.1 (dosages below 50 mg) every six months of treatment. Exlucing patients whose baseline body mass index was below 25.0 and controlling for confounders, anticonvulsant dosage was uniquely associated with an average reduction in body mass index of 3.2 (dosages above 200 mg) to 6.1 (dosages below 50 mg) every six months of treatment. Weight reduction was not statistically different between topiramate or zonisamide. Anticonvulsants were associated with an increase in body mass index, yet the benefits of the two anticonvulsants on weight loss remained despite the counteractive effects of antipsychotics.

CONCLUSIONS

Results provide preliminary evidence that topiramate and zonisamide may be utilized for weight loss in a pediatric psychopharmacological treatment seeking sample, even if antipsychotics are also prescribed. A randomized controlled trial investigating the impact of topiramate and zonisamide on weight reduction is warranted.

Collaborative role of the pediatrician in the diagnosis and management of bipolar disorder in adolescents

Despite the complexity of diagnosis and management, pediatricians have an important collaborative role in referring and partnering in the management of adolescents with bipolar disorder. This report presents the classification of bipolar disorder as well as interviewing and diagnostic guidelines. Treatment options are described, particularly focusing on medication management and rationale for the common practice of multiple, simultaneous medications. Medication adverse effects may be problematic and better managed with collaboration between mental health professionals and pediatricians. Case examples illustrate a number of common diagnostic and management issues.

Pharmacologic treatment of bipolar disorder in children and adolescents

This review focuses mainly on published articles regarding the treatment of school-aged children and adolescents with pediatric bipolar disorder. In light of systematic reviews, large randomized controlled trial data are emphasized wherever possible. This review addresses the treatment of acute manic/mixed episodes, including combination treatment, the preliminary literature regarding bipolar depression among youth, treatment in the face of comorbid conditions, and maintenance treatment. Suggestions regarding future directions are offered. A clinical vignette describing a teen with bipolar disorder is presented and bipolar medications, dosing, efficacy, side effects, contraindications, and succinct comments on each medication are summarized.

The Use of Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs) for the Treatment of Pediatric Aggression and Mood Disorders

Aggressive symptomatology presents across multiple psychiatric, developmental, neurological and behavioral disorders, complicating the diagnosis and treatment of the underlying pathology. Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) have become an appealing alternative in the treatment of aggression, mood lability and impulsivity in adult and pediatric populations, although few controlled trials have explored their efficacy in treating pediatric populations. This review of the literature synthesizes the available data on ten AEDs - valproate, carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, phenytoin, lamotrigine, topiramate, levetiracetam, zonisamide, gabapentin and tiagabine - in an attempt to assess evidence for the efficacy of AEDs in the treatment of aggression in pediatric populations. Our review revealed modest evidence that some of the AEDs produced improvement in pediatric aggression, but controlled trials in pediatric bipolar disorder have not been promising. Valproate is the best supported AED for aggression and should be considered as a first line of treatment. When monotherapy is insufficient, combining an AED with either lithium or an atypical anti-psychotic can result in better efficacy. Additionally, our review indicates that medications with predominately GABA-ergic mechanisms of action are not effective in treating aggression, and medications which decrease glutaminergic transmission tended to have more cognitive adverse effects. Agents with multiple mechanisms of action may be more effective.

Topiramate in the treatment of substance-related disorders: a critical review of the literature

OBJECTIVE

To critically review the literature on topiramate in the treatment of substance-related disorders.

DATA SOURCES

A PubMed search of human studies published in English through January 2009 was conducted using the following search terms: topiramate and substance abuse, topiramate and substance dependence, topiramate and withdrawal, topiramate and alcohol, topiramate and nicotine, topiramate and cocaine, topiramate and opiates, and topiramate and benzodiazepines.

STUDY SELECTION

26 articles were identified and reviewed; these studies examined topiramate in disorders related to alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, methamphetamine, opioids, Ecstasy, and benzodiazepines.

DATA EXTRACTION

Study design, sample size, topiramate dose and duration, and study outcomes were reviewed.

DATA SYNTHESIS

There is compelling evidence for the efficacy of topiramate in the treatment of alcohol dependence. Two trials show trends for topiramate's superiority over oral naltrexone in alcohol dependence, while 1 trial suggests topiramate is inferior to disulfiram. Despite suggestive animal models, evidence for topiramate in treating alcohol withdrawal in humans is slim. Studies of topiramate in nicotine dependence show mixed results. Human laboratory studies that used acute topiramate dosing show that topiramate actually enhances the pleasurable effects of both nicotine and methamphetamine. Evidence for topiramate in the treatment of cocaine dependence is promising, but limited by small sample size. The data on opioids, benzodiazepines, and Ecstasy are sparse.

CONCLUSIONS

Topiramate is efficacious for the treatment of alcohol dependence, but side effects may limit widespread use. While topiramate's unique pharmacodynamic profile offers a promising theoretical rationale for use across multiple substance-related disorders, heterogeneity both across and within these disorders limits topiramate's broad applicability in treating substance-related disorders. Recommendations for future research include exploration of genetic variants for more targeted pharmacotherapies.

Psychosocial functioning and health-related quality of life in children and adolescents treated with open-label ziprasidone for bipolar mania, schizophrenia, or schizoaffective disorder

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to examine global functioning, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), and clinical outcome in children and adolescents with bipolar I disorder, schizophrenia, or schizoaffective disorder following ziprasidone treatment.

METHODS

Sixty-three subjects (aged 10-17 years) received open-label ziprasidone, titrated from 10 to 40 mg twice a day (b.i.d.) (low-dose group) or from 20 to 80 mg b.i.d. (high-dose group); fixed doses were used until week 3, followed by flexible doses for 6 months. The Children's Global Assessment Scale (CGAS) characterized functional impairment at baseline and following treatment. The Child Health Questionnaire (CHQ) assessed HRQOL at baseline.

RESULTS

Baseline CHQ showed greater impairment in psychosocial functioning than in physical health. Baseline mean CGAS scores were substantially below normal (i.e., <70), indicating functional impairment. Improvement in CGAS scores occurred as early as the first week of treatment. The low correlations between both CHQ and CGAS and the efficacy measures at baseline indicate that these scales measure different constructs. Nevertheless, there was good correlation between improvements in the CGAS and changes in Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale-Anchored (BPRS-A) and Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) during ziprasidone treatment.

CONCLUSION

CHQ and CGAS scales may be useful together with standard efficacy measures for children and adolescents with these disorders.

Prescribing patterns for treatment of pediatric bipolar disorder in a specialty clinic

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to describe prescribing practices in the treatment of pediatric bipolar disorder in a university practice setting.

METHOD

A retrospective chart review was performed on 53 youths diagnosed using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4(th) edition (DSM-IV), criteria with bipolar spectrum disorder under the active care of child psychiatrists practicing in a pediatric psychopharmacology specialty clinic. Current medications, doses, and related adverse events were recorded. Clinicians were asked to provide a target disorder (bipolar mania/mixed state, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder [ADHD], or anxiety) for each medication to the best of their ability. The Clinical Global Impressions-Severity (CGI-S) scale was used to measure severity of each disorder before treatment and the Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement (CGI-I) was used to quantify the magnitude of improvement with treatment. Meaningful improvement of the disorder was defined by CGI-I score of 1 or 2.

RESULTS

The mean number of psychotropic medications per patient was 3.0 +/- 1.6. A total of 68% of patients were treated for co-morbid disorders; 23% of patients were treated with monotherapy, primarily with second-generation antipsychotics. Mania improved in 80% of cases, mixed state improved in 57% of cases, ADHD improved in 56% of cases, anxiety improved in 61% of cases, and depression improved in 90% of cases.

CONCLUSION

The management of pediatric bipolar disorder often requires multiple medications. For the treatment of mania/mixed states, clinicians prescribed second-generation antipsychotics more frequently than mood stabilizers, especially in the context of monotherapy. Co-morbidity was a frequent problem with moderate success obtained with combined pharmacotherapy approaches. Further psychosocial strategies to augment pharmacotherapy may improve outcome while reducing the medication burden in pediatric bipolar disorder.

Comparison of open-label, 8-week trials of olanzapine monotherapy and topiramate augmentation of olanzapine for the treatment of pediatric bipolar disorder

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to test the efficacy and safety of olanzapine + topiramate versus olanzapine monotherapy in the treatment of bipolar disorder (BPD) and treatment-attendant weight gain in children and adolescents.

METHOD

Subjects (N = 40) were outpatients of both sexes, 6-17 years of age, with a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4(th) edition (DSM-IV) diagnosis of BPD (manic, hypomanic, or mixed) and Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) total score of >15 treated over 8-week periods in two partially concurrent open-label trials with olanzapine (n = 17) or olanzapine + topiramate (n = 23).

RESULTS

Subjects in both groups experienced a statistically significant reduction in YMRS scores after 8-week, open-label treatment with olanzapine (baseline YMRS = 26.7 +/- 9.5; end-point YMRS = 18.2 +/- 12.5, p = 0.04) and olanzapine +topiramate (baseline YMRS = 31.3 +/- 7.9; end-point YMRS = 20.4 +/- 11.4, p = 0.04). There was no difference in response between the two groups based on YMRS or Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement (CGI-I) scores. Adverse events were few and mild and similar between the two groups, with the exception of weight gain. The weight gain in the olanzapine group was 5.3 +/- 2.1 kg and the weight gain in the olanzapine + topiramate group was statistically significantly lower, 2.6 +/- 3.6 kg.

CONCLUSIONS

Augmentation of olanzapine with topiramate resulted in a reduced weight gain over the course of an 8-week, open-label trial when compared with olanzapine treatment alone, but did not lead to greater reduction in symptoms of mania.

Adjunctive topiramate treatment for a refractory familial adolescent mania

Adolescent mania is often misdiagnosed. This case study describes the clinical course and diagnostic reclassification from schizophrenia to bipolar disorder in a 15-year-old girl. This case study also describes the pedigree of the siblings, familial aggregation, and anticipation of mood disorders. In addition, we present the successful use of topiramate, a new antiepileptic drug, which is increasingly being used as a mood stabilizer in paediatric bipolar disorder. The efficacy of topiramate in this case supports its role as a promising agent in treatment-resistant adolescent mania associated with familial aggregation.

Pharmacologic treatment of pediatric bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder (BPD) is being diagnosed with increasing frequency in the pediatric population as the phenomenology of this disorder is becoming more clearly delineated. Early diagnosis and treatment of pediatric BPD is important to minimize psychosocial disability and improve prognosis. Traditional mood stabilizers and atypical antipsychotic agents are frequently used to treat BPD in youth, and there are emerging data to support their use in this population. This article provides a review of the literature on appropriate pharmacologic treatment strategies for BPD in children and adolescents. The complex treatment issues of comorbid BPD and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder also are addressed.

Pharmacotherapeutic strategies for pediatric bipolar disorder

There has been a recent increase in recognition and diagnosis of pediatric bipolar disorder (PBD), along with an increase in prescriptions for psychotropic medications for treating children suffering from this chronic, potentially disabling disorder. Lithium remains the only FDA-approved mood stabilizer for use in children > 12 years of age and along with valproic acid and carbamazepine, forms the triad of traditional mood stabilizers used for initiation of treatment for PBD. There has been a recent surge in the use of atypical antipsychotics in PBD, which may be due to their relative ease of administration and lack of requirement for serum level monitoring. A combination of traditional mood stabilizers along with atypical antipsychotics is commonly used in clinical practice, despite a lack of compelling empirical data. Although there is an urgent need for controlled studies on the available treatment options and strategies in PBD, recent expert consensus guidelines and emerging controlled pharmacotherapy data on PBD will lay the platform for future scientific research in the area.

Weight gain and metabolic effects of mood stabilizers and antipsychotics in pediatric bipolar disorder: a systematic review and pooled analysis of short-term trials

OBJECTIVE

To review weight and metabolic effects of mood-stabilizing treatments in pediatric bipolar disorder.

METHOD

Systematic PubMed/Medline search of studies reporting on change in weight and/or glucose/lipid values with mood-stabilizing drugs in at least nine pediatric patients with bipolar disorder.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies, including 24 medication trials in 684 patients (mean age, 12.3 +/- 2.9 years) were included. Youngsters received lithium, antiepileptics, or their combinations (n = 459), or second-generation antipsychotics, alone or combined with lithium or divalproex (n = 225), for 4 to 48 (mean, 15.4 +/- 12.7) weeks. Weight increase was significant/clinically relevant in 18 (75.0%) trials. Weight loss was significant with topiramate (2 studies, 38 subjects) and present with aripiprazole (1 study, 14 subjects). In trials lasting < or =12 weeks, weight gain was greater with second-generation antipsychotics plus mood stabilizers (5.5 +/- 1.8 kg) compared to mood-stabilizer monotherapy (1.2 +/- 1.9 kg, p <.05, Cohen's d = 2.33) or mood-stabilizer cotreatment (2.1 +/- 1.3 kg, p <.05, Cohen's d = 2.17), but not compared to antipsychotic monotherapy (3.4 +/- 1.3 kg, p >.05, Cohen's d = 1.34). Nonfasting glucose/lipid changes were nonsignificant in two second-generation antipsychotic trials (n = 61, 8.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

Data are sparse regarding body composition effects and lacking for fasting metabolic effects of mood stabilizers in pediatric bipolar disorder. Combining antipsychotics with mood stabilizers seems to lead to greater weight gain than treatment with one or two mood stabilizers.

The public health aspects of bipolar disorder in children and adolescents

Bipolar disorder in children and adolescents is a major public health problem associated with significant functional impairment. Similar to adults with bipolar disorder, children and adolescents are at increased risk for substance-related disorders, weight problems, and impaired social support systems. Substance-related problems complicate treatment course. They often follow the onset of bipolar disorder; thus, the opportunity for prevention and/or early intervention exists. Evidence supports an association between mood disorders and weight gain. Psychotropic agents to treat bipolar disorder, particularly some second-generation antipsychotics, may be associated with weight gain. Obesity is associated with worse outcomes in bipolar disorder, so prevention of weight gain is clinically important. Environmental factors may contribute to relapse, so interventions to optimize social support systems are being evaluated. Pediatric bipolar disorder requires comprehensive management to achieve optimal outcome. Further research to study modifiable factors that contribute to its morbidity and chronicity is needed.

Psychopharmacology of pediatric bipolar disorder: a review

RATIONALE

Pediatric bipolar disorder (PBD) is a chronic and debilitating psychiatric illness. It is associated with many short-term and long-term complications including poor academic and social performance, legal problems and increased risk of suicide. Moreover, it is often complicated by other serious psychiatric disorders including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder and substance use disorders. For these reasons, there is a need for effective treatment for PBD.

OBJECTIVES

To review available data from published reports of the treatment of PBD, highlighting those treatment practices for which there is scientific evidence. To suggest directions for future research.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive Medline search was performed to identify published reports from 1995 to 2006. Reports with the greatest methodological stringency received greater focus.

RESULTS

There is limited evidence from double-blind, placebo-controlled trials regarding the treatment of PBD. Available data suggests that lithium, some anticonvulsants and second-generation antipsychotics may be equally beneficial in the acute monotherapy for youth with mixed or manic states. However, because of limited response to acute monotherapy, there is increased justification for combination therapy. There is very limited data on the treatment of the depressed phase of bipolar illness in the youth. Also, very few studies have addressed the treatment of comorbidities and maintenance/relapse prevention in PBD.

CONCLUSION

Although significant progress was made in the treatment of youth with bipolar disorder, there is a need for more methodologically stringent research to more precisely define evidence-based treatment strategies for PBD.

Topiramate prescribing patterns among medicaid patients: Diagnosis, comorbidities, and dosing

BACKGROUND

Routine clinical practice data are useful for payers and formulary decision makers to make sound decisions regarding coverage policy. Based on a literature search, there has been scant research into topiramate prescribing patterns among Medicaid patients.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to describe diagnoses, demographic characteristics, additional co-existing diagnoses, and dosing among Medicaid patients prescribed topiramate.

METHODS

This descriptive, retrospective database analysis used data from South Carolina (SC) and Texas (TX) ambulatory Medicaid claims dated October 1, 2003, to December 31, 2004. Patients whose data were eligible for inclusion in the study were enrolled in Medicaid during the study period, had >or=2 topiramate prescriptions, were aged <65 years, and had evidence of a topiramate treatment-related diagnosis (possible diagnoses were identified through literature search and drug compendiums). Four cohorts were defined: (1) epilepsy only; (2) migraine only; (3) epilepsy and migraine; and (4) nonepilepsy/nonmigraine. Demographic characteristics, diagnoses, comorbidities, and daily dose of topiramate were summarized using descriptive statistics. The initial study analysis (period 1) was a 180-day window comprising the 90 days before and after the first available topiramate prescription claim was filed. A second, 360-day analysis (period 2) was completed comprising the 180 days before and after the index topiramate prescription date.

RESULTS

In the 180-day analysis, 2216 SC and 4766 TX Medicaid patients met the selection criteria. Cohort classification percentages were 32.3% and 39.6% (epilepsy only), 29.7% and 16.4% (migraine only), 10.7% and 9.2% (epilepsy and migraine), and 27.3% and 34.9% (nonepilepsy/nonmigraine) for SC and TX, respectively. Mean (SD) ages were 29.9 (15.9) (SC) and 27.1 (16.1) (TX) years. In the nonepilepsy/nonmigraine cohort, the most common diagnoses were bipolar disorder and depression. The median daily doses in the epilepsy-only cohort were 175 mg/d in the SC group and 200 mg/d in the TX group. In the migraine-only cohort, the median daily dose was 100 mg/d in SC and TX. Results for the 360-day analysis were similar.

CONCLUSIONS

In this descriptive study using data from 2 Medicaid populations, the majority of patients using topiramate had a diagnosis of epilepsy and/or migraine. Median dosages ranged from 175 to 200 mg/d in patients with epilepsy and 100 mg/d in those with migraine. Depression was a common comorbidity in the migraine cohort and the nonepilepsy/nonmigraine cohort.

Topiramate in adolescents with juvenile bipolar disorder presenting weight gain due to atypical antipsychotics or mood stabilizers: an open clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Many children and adolescents with bipolar disorder (BD) do not adhere to the pharmacological treatment due to weight gain. This investigation aims to describe response, side effects, and weight changes in a sample of youths with BPD while receiving topiramate for 11 weeks during the treatment maintenance phase.

METHODS

Ten consecutive outpatients with BPD (11-17 years) using a single mood stabilizer and/or an antipsychotic presenting weight gain over 5% of their baseline weight were enrolled in this 11-week protocol. Their medication was switched to topiramate during the first 4 weeks. The Young Mania Rating Scale (Y-MRS) was the main outcome measure to assess response to the treatment in a weekly basis. Side effects and weight were also assessed weekly.

RESULTS

In repeated-measure analysis of variance (ANOVA), we found a significant reduction in both the YMRS scores (F = 10.21; p ,0.01) and in weight (F = 8.04; p ,0.01) during the trial.

CONCLUSIONS

These initial findings suggesting antimanic effects for topiramate during the treatment maintenance phase associated with weight reductions indicate the need of randomized clinical trials assessing this clinical relevant issue.

Pediatric Bipolar Disorder: Evidence-Based Psychopharmacological Treatments

TOPIC

Pediatric bipolar disorder can cause severe disturbances in global functioning. Diagnosing pediatric bipolar disorder is challenging due to the range of symptom expression, developmental differences as compared to adults, presence of comorbid disorders, and developing diagnostic criteria. Treating this disorder can be equally challenging due to frequent symptom relapse and the dearth of research until recently on effective psychopharmacological interventions that guide clinical prescribing practices.

PURPOSE

This paper will help child psychiatric nurses have a better understanding of the unique presentation of pediatric bipolar disorder to facilitate selection of appropriate medication treatment options, taking into account symptom presentation, presence of comorbid diagnosis, drug efficacy, adverse effects, and drug-drug interactions based on research findings.

SOURCES

Literature specific to assessment and psychopharmacological treatment of pediatric bipolar disorder was reviewed.

CONCLUSIONS

Screening of youth with mood spectrum problems for bipolar disorder should occur in every diagnostic assessment and should be ongoing due to range of mood symptoms and the cyclical and episodic nature of this disorder. Youth with bipolar disorder may manifest symptoms and course that differ from adults. Additionally, co-occuring disorders are common in this population, which can complicate medication selection. Psychopharmacological treatment with the use of specific mood stabilizers and/or atypical antipsychotic medications is warranted depending on symptom presentation; however, monotherapy with mood stabilizers has not demonstrated effectiveness in long-term remission of pediatric bipolar symptoms. Recent research indicates that a combined treatment with two mood stabilizers or a mood stabilizer and an antipsychotic holds promising results for pediatric bipolar I, for youth with acute manic symptoms plus psychosis, and for long-term remission of symptoms.

Empirical evidence for the use of lithium and anticonvulsants in children with psychiatric disorders

BACKGROUND

The use of psychotropic medications-in particular, mood stabilizers--in youths with psychiatric illness has grown. There are trends toward polypharmacy and the increased use of newer mood stabilizers in youths with psychiatric illness despite a paucity of studies examining the short- and long-term efficacy and safety of these agents in the pediatric population.

METHOD

PubMed was used to identify peer-reviewed publications from the past 30 years (January 1975 to August 2005) studying lithium and anticonvulsants in youths with psychiatric illness.

RESULTS

Evidence supporting the use of lithium and valproate in the treatment of juvenile bipolar disorder and reactive aggression has grown. Evidence for the use of other anticonvulsants in youths with psychiatric illness is sparse. Side effects from lithium and anticonvulsants are typically mild to moderate. Data are accumulating in regard to the longer-term safety of lithium and DVPX in the juvenile psychiatric population. Although data in regard to the newer anticonvulsants are limited, they may have more desirable side-effect profiles.

CONCLUSION

Double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of lithium and anticonvulsants are greatly needed as clinical use of these agents has risen without sufficient evidence supporting their efficacy in the pediatric population.

Pharmacological interventions for bipolar youth: Developmental considerations

Despite the high prevalence rate, there have been relatively few controlled studies to systematically examine pharmacological treatments for children and adolescents with bipolar disorder. We review the differences in clinical characteristics between youth and adults with bipolar disorder and the extant literature of pharmacological treatments for children and adolescents with bipolar disorder, as well as discuss the effectiveness of pharmacological interventions for treating children and adolescents who are at familial risk for developing bipolar disorder. Although the number of controlled studies of youth with manic and mixed episodes is rapidly growing, there are few studies examining treatments for depression and the prevention of recurrent affective episodes in this population. Although children and adolescents with bipolar disorder commonly present with co-occurring psychiatric disorders, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, there are limited data to guide the treatment of these patients. Recently, studies have begun to characterize prodromal manifestations of bipolar disorder and identify early intervention strategies for treating children and adolescents with an elevated risk for developing bipolar disorder.

The use of antiepileptic drugs in bipolar disorders: a review based on evidence from controlled trials

Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) have diverse psychotropic profiles. Some AEDs have proven to be efficacious in the treatment of mood disorders, especially bipolar disorder. Others are ineffective as primary treatments but may be useful adjuncts for mood disorders or comorbid conditions. Valproate (acute mania and mixed episodes), carbamazepine (acute mania and mixed episodes), and lamotrigine (maintenance to delay recurrence) have United States Food and Drug Administration indications for the treatment of bipolar disorder. This article provides an overview of data on the use of AEDs in bipolar disorder, including acute mania and depression, prophylaxis, and rapid cycling.

Pediatric bipolar disease: current and future perspectives for study of its long-term course and treatment

AIM AND METHODS

Findings from recent long-term, prospective longitudinal studies of the course, outcome and naturalistic treatment of adults with bipolar illness are highlighted as background for long-term developmental study of pediatric bipolar illness.

RESULTS

Accumulating knowledge of bipolar illness in adults underscores a high risk for multiple recurrences through the lifespan, significant medical morbidity, high rates of self-harm, economic and social burden and frequent treatment resistance with residual symptoms between major episodes. At present, there is no empirical foundation to support any assumption about the long-term course or outcome of bipolar illness when it arises in childhood or adolescence, or the effects of conventional pharmacotherapies in altering its course and limiting potentially adverse outcomes. The proposed research articulates specific descriptive aims that draw on adult findings and outlines core methodological requirements for such an endeavor.

CONCLUSIONS

Innovations in the description and quantitative analysis of prospective longitudinal clinical data must now be extended to large, systematically ascertained pediatric cohorts recruited through multicenter studies if there is to be a meaningful scientific advance in our knowledge of the enduring effects of bipolar illness and the potential value of contemporary approaches to its management.

Nonepileptic uses of antiepileptic drugs in children and adolescents

Antiepileptic drugs are often prescribed for nonepileptic neurologic and psychiatric conditions. The United States Food and Drug Administration has approved several antiepileptic drugs for the treatment of neuropathic pain, migraine, and mania in adults. For pediatric patients, use of antiepileptic drugs for non-seizure-related purposes is supported mainly by adult studies, open-label trials, and case reports. Summarized here is the published literature for or against the use of antiepileptic drugs for neuropathic pain, migraine, movement disorders, bipolar disorder, aggressive behavior, and pervasive developmental disorders in children and adolescents. Using the American Academy of Neurology's four-tiered classification scheme for a therapeutic article and translation to a recommendation rating, there are no nonepileptic disorders for which antiepileptic drugs have been established as effective for pediatric patients. Valproate and carbamazepine are "possibly effective" in the treatment of Sydenham chorea, and valproate is "probably effective" in decreasing aggressive behavior. Carbamazepine is "probably ineffective" in the treatment of aggression, and lamotrigine is "possibly ineffective" in improving the core symptom of pervasive developmental disorders. Despite the frequent use of antiepileptic drugs in the treatment of juvenile bipolar disorder, migraine, and neuropathic pain, the data are insufficient to make recommendations regarding the efficacy of antiepileptics in these conditions in children and adolescents.

Adjunctive lamotrigine treatment for adolescents with bipolar disorder: retrospective report of five cases

BACKGROUND

Our aim was to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and tolerability of adjunctive lamotrigine in the treatment of adolescents with bipolar disorder.

METHOD

We evaluated all patients under age 18 with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition, text revision (DSM-IV-TR) bipolar disorder in our outpatient clinic treated with lamotrigine, using the Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scale. We rated response with the CGI-Improvement (CGI-I) scale.

RESULTS

Five patients (mean age = 15.5 +/- 1.8 years; range = 14-17), 1 male and 4 females, were included. One patient (20%) had bipolar I disorder, 1 (20%) had bipolar II disorder, and 3 (60%) had bipolar disorder not otherwise specified (NOS). The polarity of the episode at baseline was depressive in all patients. The mean lamotrigine dose was 100 +/- 87.5 mg/day (1.67 +/- 1.39 mg/kg/day). The mean duration of treatment was 28 +/- 28 weeks. CGI significantly improved from 5 at baseline to 3 +/- 1 at endpoint (p = 0.011). Improvement was marked or moderate in 4 patients (80%) and minimal in 1 patient (20%). One patient referred to dizziness, and there were no reports of increased cycling, worsening of mania, or skin rash.

CONCLUSIONS

This open, retrospective chart review suggests that lamotrigine may be effective and well tolerated as an adjunctive treatment in adolescents with bipolar disorder. Controlled trials are needed.

Topiramate for acute affective episodes in bipolar disorder

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder is a common recurrent illness with high levels of chronicity. Treatment resistance persists despite the use of established medications, such as lithium and valproate. New medications are required for the treatment of refractory cases. Retrospective and open-label trials have suggested that the anticonvulsant topiramate may be efficacious in bipolar disorder. There is a need to clarify the evidence available in the form of randomised controlled trials for its use in bipolar disorder.

OBJECTIVES

To review the evidence for the efficacy and acceptability of topiramate in the treatment of acute mood episodes in bipolar disorder.

SEARCH STRATEGY

The Cochrane Collaboration Depression, Anxiety and Neurosis (CCDAN) group search strategy was used. The following databases were searched:The Cochrane Collaboration Depression, Anxiety and Neurosis Controlled Trials Register (CCDANCTR), September 2003;The Cochrane Controlled Clinical Trials Register (CCCTR), September 2003;EMBASE (1980 to December 2003);MEDLINE (1966 to December 2003);LILACS;PsycLIT;Psyndex.Reference lists of relevant papers and major textbooks of mood disorder. Handsearches (specialist journals and conference proceedings). Authors, other experts in the field and pharmaceutical companies were contacted for knowledge of suitable published or unpublished trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials which compared topiramate with placebo or with active agents in the treatment of any acute mood episodes in bipolar disorder. Participants were patients with bipolar disorder and were males and females of all ages.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data extraction and methodological quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers. For analysis, relative risk was used for binary efficacy outcomes and the weighted mean difference or standardised mean difference was used for continuously distributed outcomes.

MAIN RESULTS

One randomised controlled trial met the inclusion criteria for the review, a comparison between topiramate and bupropion sustained release (SR) in the adjunctive treatment of depressed patients with bipolar disorder. However, the trial had several limitations in methodology and in the description of data. Its data regarding efficacy required clarification before it could be analysed according to the protocol of this systematic review. From the limited data available, topiramate had efficacy similar to bupropion SR in the adjunctive treatment of bipolar depression. Both groups of subjects suffered a high drop-out rate. There was no significant difference between the topiramate and the bupropion treated groups in those dropping out for any reason (relative risk 1.60, 95% confidence interval 0.65 to 3.96). There was no significant difference in those withdrawing from the study due to adverse effects (relative risk 1.50, 95% confidence interval 0.51 to 4.43). Although the data on weight loss were not analysed formally, weight loss was marked in the topiramate treated group. Several unpublished trials have been identified and data from these trials may be included in future reviews.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is insufficient evidence on which to base any recommendations regarding the use of topiramate in any phase of bipolar illness, either in monotherapy or as an adjunctive treatment.

Pediatric bipolar disorder: emerging diagnostic and treatment approaches

Children and adolescents who have bipolar disorder often are encountered in clinical settings and frequently require treatment with mood stabilizers and atypical antipsychotics. New screening and diagnostic tools are available to aid in the diagnosis of bipolar disorder in children and adolescents. Additional data supporting the use of mood stabilizers and atypical antipsychotics in this population also are emerging. Combinations of existing psychotropics remain the most effective treatment of pediatric bipolar disorder at this point. This article reviews the phenomenology and clinical characteristics of pediatric bipolar disorder and current approaches to pharmacotherapy. It is becoming apparent that bipolar disorder is often a chronic disorder in children and adolescents, much like diabetes, and is best managed with a combination of medications and psychosocial therapy.

Adjunctive topiramate in hospitalized children and adolescents with bipolar disorders

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess topiramate as adjunctive treatment in children and adolescents hospitalized with bipolar disorders.

METHODS

Medical records of all children and adolescents with a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV-TR) (APA, 2000) diagnosis of bipolar disorder, type I, hospitalized for an acute manic, mixed, or depressive episode, were reviewed. The primary outcome measure was the Clinical Global Impression-Severity (CGI-S) score.

RESULTS

Twenty-five (25) children and adolescents received topiramate, with a mean final dose of 126 mg/day (range, 25-350 mg). Overall CGI-S scores significantly improved from 5.3+/-1.0 to 3.5+/-0.7, and mania CGI-S scores decreased from 5.4+/-1.0 to 3.3+/-0.9. Sixteen (16) of 25 (64%) bipolar patients were classified as responders (defined by an endpoint overall CGI-I score of less than or equal to 2). No serious adverse events occurred during treatment. Of 25 patients evaluated, 1 (4%) experienced mild sedation while treated with topiramate.

CONCLUSIONS

Preliminary results of this retrospective chart review suggest that adjunctive topiramate may be associated with improvements in children and adolescents hospitalized for an acute manic, mixed, or depressive episode. Randomized and controlled trials with adjunctive topiramate in this population are needed to further explore this observation.

Comorbid anxiety in phenotypes of pediatric bipolar disorder

OBJECTIVE

There has been limited research on anxiety in pediatric bipolar disorder (BPD). Adult BPD studies suggest comorbid anxiety disorders are common and impact treatment outcome. We explored the association of comorbid anxiety with two phenotypes of pediatric BPD.

METHODS

We studied two groups of children. The first group (BPD; N = 31) represents the "narrow phenotype" of pediatric BPD, meeting stringent DSM-IV criteria for mania, including duration and elevated/expansive mood. The second group (ED; N = 32) exhibited chronic, non-episodic irritability without elation or grandiosity ("broad phenotype").

RESULTS

Both samples demonstrate high prevalence of anxiety (BPD 77.4%; ED 46.9%). In the BPD sample, anxiety predates BPD onset, and those with comorbid anxiety have earlier age of onset of BPD than those without. Children with BPD plus anxiety have more hospitalizations than those without anxiety. ED subjects with and without comorbid anxiety did not differ with respect to onset of ED symptoms or number of hospitalizations.

CONCLUSIONS

Narrow and broad phenotype BPD children have high rates of comorbid anxiety, although only in the narrow phenotype group is comorbid anxiety associated with greater functional impairment BPD plus comorbid anxiety may represent a particularly severe phenotype of pediatric BPD.

A pilot controlled trial of topiramate for mania in children and adolescents with bipolar disorder

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of topiramate monotherapy for acute mania in children and adolescents with bipolar disorder type I.

METHOD

This double-blind, placebo-controlled study was discontinued early when adult mania trials with topiramate failed to show efficacy. Efficacy end points included the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale for Children, Children's Depression Rating Scale, Children's Global Assessment Scale, and Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement.

RESULTS

Fifty-six children and adolescents (6-17 years) with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder type I received topiramate (n=29, 52%) or placebo (n=27, 48%). The only statistically significant differences in efficacy measures between treatment groups were the difference between slopes of the linear mean profiles of the YMRS (p=.003) using a post hoc repeated measures regression and the change in Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale for Children at day 28 (-14.9 versus-5.9, p=.048) using observed data. Adverse events with topiramate included decreased appetite, nausea, diarrhea, and paresthesia.

CONCLUSIONS

Topiramate was well tolerated; however, the results are inconclusive because of premature termination resulting in a limited sample size. Adequately powered controlled trials are necessary to determine whether topiramate has efficacy in reducing symptoms of acute mania in children and adolescents.

Pharmacotherapy of children and adolescents with bipolar disorder

The identification and treatment of children and adolescents with a bipolar disorder is often challenging and difficult. Many of the psychotropic agents used to treat adults with bipolar disorder may also be-used to treat children and adolescents with these disorders. Further controlled trials using combination pharmacotherapy in children and adolescents with bipolar disorders are needed to advance the field of pediatric bipolarity and provide optimal care for these patients. There are multiple ongoing trials of mood stabilizers and atypical antipsychotics that will provide important controlled data that are currently lacking in the field.

Divalproex sodium for pediatric mixed mania: a 6-month prospective trial

OBJECTIVE

This prospective 6-month open trial examined the effectiveness and safety of divalproex sodium (DVPX) in pediatric mixed mania.

METHOD

Thirty-four subjects with a mean age of 12.3 (SD = 3.7) years, DSM-IV diagnosis of a current mixed episode and a baseline Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) score >20 were treated with DVPX monotherapy. The primary outcome measures were the YMRS and the Child Depression Rating Scale-Revised. Secondary measures were the Clinical Global Impression Scale for Bipolar Disorder (CGI-BP) and the Children's Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (C-GAS). Measures of safety and tolerability were also administered.

RESULTS

Effect size (Cohen's d) based on change scores from baseline was 2.9 for the YMRS and 1.23 for the CDRS-R. Response rate (> or =50% change from baseline YMRS score and < or =40 score on CDRS-R at the end of study) was 73.5%. The remission rate (> or =50% change from baseline on YMRS, < or =40 on CDRS-R, CGI-BP-Improvement subscale of < or =2, and > or =51 CGAS score) was 52.9%. Significant improvements (p < 0.001) from baseline were seen for mean scores on all outcome measures (i.e., YMRS, CGI-BP, CDRS-R, and C-GAS). DVPX was safe and well tolerated with no serious adverse events during the 6-month trial.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence for the effectiveness and safety of DVPX in the treatment of pediatric mixed mania over a 6-month period. Placebo-controlled, randomized trials involving larger samples will ultimately shed light on the efficacy of this agent.

The effectiveness and tolerability of aripiprazole for pediatric bipolar disorders: a retrospective chart review

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this retrospective chart review was to evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of aripiprazole for the treatment of children and adolescents with bipolar disorders.

METHODS

The medical charts of all children and adolescents with a DSM-IV diagnosis of bipolar disorder, type I, type II, not otherwise specified (NOS), or schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type, and who were treated with aripiprazole were reviewed by two child and adolescent psychiatrists who independently confirmed their DSM-IV diagnoses, severity, and the improvement of illness using the Clinical Global Impression (CGI) Severity and Improvement scores for bipolar disorder (CGI-BP) and the Clinical Global Assessment Scale (CGAS).

RESULTS

Thirty patients who were treated with aripiprazole were identified (mean starting dose=9 +/- 4 mg/day, mean final dose=10 +/- 3 mg/day). The overall response rate, defined by a CGI-Improvement score of < or = 2 at endpoint, was 67%. There was a statistically significant improvement in CGAS scores (48 +/- 11 to 65 +/- 11, signed rank = 191, p <0.0001) and CGI-S scores (4.2 +/- 0.8 to 2.8 +/- 1.0, signed rank=-172, p <0.0001, effect size=1.90) from baseline to endpoint. No serious adverse events were identified. Common side effects were sedation (n=10, 33%), akathisia (n=7, 23%), and gastrointestinal disturbances (n=2, 7%). Baseline and endpoint weights were available for 14 (47%) of the patients. Change in weight ranged from +5 to -21 kg and 12 (86%) of 14 patients lost weight (mean weight loss was 3 +/- 6 kg).

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective chart review suggests that aripiprazole may be effective and well tolerated for children and adolescents with bipolar disorders. Controlled studies of aripiprazole for the treatment of pediatric bipolar disorder are necessary.

Prepubertal bipolar disorder: available pharmacological treatment options

Awareness of bipolar spectrum disorders in children is rapidly increasing, with a more precise definition of their clinical subtypes and early signs. Paediatric bipolar disorder can lead to an important impairment in scholastic, familial and social functioning, and to a higher risk for substance abuse and suicide. In the context of a multimodal approach, the core treatment of early-onset bipolar disorder is pharmacological. This review focuses on the empirical evidence for pharmacotherapy in paediatric bipolar disorder. Mood stabilizers, including lithium, and older and newer anticonvulsivants will be considered, in mono- or polypharmacy. Atypical antipsychotics will be considered in more severe and/or treatment-resistant manic or mixed episodes. Finally, the prophylaxis of intercritical phases and the management of specific challenging conditions, such as bipolar depression and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, with bipolar comorbidity, will be reviewed.

Treatment guidelines for children and adolescents with bipolar disorder

Clinicians who treat children and adolescents with bipolar disorder desperately need current treatment guidelines. These guidelines were developed by expert consensus and a review of the extant literature about the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric bipolar disorders. The four sections of these guidelines include diagnosis, comorbidity, acute treatment, and maintenance treatment. These guidelines are not intended to serve as an absolute standard of medical or psychological care but rather to serve as clinically useful guidelines for evaluation and treatment that can be used in the care of children and adolescents with bipolar disorder. These guidelines are subject to change as our evidence base increases and practice patterns evolve.

Review of the use of Topiramate for treatment of psychiatric disorders

BACKGROUND: Topiramate is a new antiepileptic drug, originally designed as an oral hypoglycaemic subsequently approved as anticonvulsant. It has increasingly been used in the treatment of numerous psychiatric conditions and it has also been associated with weight loss potentially relevant in reversing weight gain induced by psychotropic medications. This article reviews pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile of topiramate, its biological putative role in treating psychiatric disorders and its relevance in clinical practice. METHODS: A comprehensive search from a range of databases was conducted and papers addressing the topic were selected. RESULTS: Thirty-two published reports met criteria for inclusion, 4 controlled and 28 uncontrolled studies. Five unpublished controlled studies were also identified in the treatment of acute mania. CONCLUSIONS: Topiramate lacks efficacy in the treatment of acute mania. Increasing evidence, based on controlled studies, supports the use of topiramate in binge eating disorders, bulimia nervosa, alcohol dependence and possibly in bipolar disorders in depressive phase. In the treatment of rapid cycling bipolar disorders, as adjunctive treatment in refractory bipolar disorder in adults and children, schizophrenia, posttraumatic stress disorder, unipolar depression, emotionally unstable personality disorder and Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome the evidence is entirely based on open label studies, case reports and case series. Regarding weight loss, findings are encouraging and have potential implications in reversing increased body weight, normalisation of glycemic control and blood pressure. Topiramate was generally well tolerated and serious adverse events were rare.

Topiramate and divalproex in combination with risperidone for acute mania: a randomized open-label study

Mood stabilizers and atypical antipsychotics are commonly combined for the treatment of bipolar mania. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness and tolerability of topiramate and divalproex in combination with risperidone for treating acute mania patients in a naturalistic treatment setting. Seventy-four patients who met the DSM-IV criteria for bipolar mania were enrolled in this study. In order to assess the efficacy and the extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), Clinical Global Impression (CGI) and Simpson-Angus Rating Scale (SARS) were measured at the baseline and at weeks 1, 3 and 6. From the baseline to the endpoint, the YMRS and CGI scores were reduced by 67.9% and 56.6% in the topiramate plus risperidone group (TPMG). The YMRS and CGI scores were also reduced by 63.7% and 58.2% in the divalproex plus risperidone group (DVPG). The weight and body mass index (BMI) increased significantly by 3.6% and 3.3% from the baseline to the endpoint in the DVPG, while they decreased by 0.5% and 0.4%, respectively, with no significant difference in the TPMG. There were no serious adverse events in either group. Despite the methodological limitations, topiramate was effective and tolerable for treating acute mania and may also be a promising alternative to a weight-gain liable mood stabilizer (MS) such as divalproex.

Mental health concerns of HIV-infected gay and bisexual men seeking mental health services: an observational study

Addressing mental health concerns of HIV-positive individuals is an important component of providing quality HIV care. Mental health intake information from patients with HIV can be an important source of data to complement existing research on HIV and mental health because the intake information contains concerns that are both from the perspective of the patients and are significant enough to bring them into treatment. The current study describes the mental health intake information of HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM) at an urban community health clinic over a 1-year period. This information included presenting problems, current symptoms from a symptom checklist, ratings of impairments in functioning, and client histories (e.g., substance abuse, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, previous treatment). It also included clinicians' Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV) diagnoses of the participants, and recommended treatments. Depression was the most prevalent presenting problem (58.1% of clients), followed by anxiety (38.2%). Consistently, depression (96.3%) and low energy (78.2%) were the most frequently endorsed symptoms on a symptom checklist, followed by anxiety (69.2%). HIV-specific problems also played a large role both directly, as a presenting problem, and indirectly as they related to such concerns as relationship issues. Axis I diagnoses included adjustment disorders (50.0%), major depressive disorder (21.4%), and dysthymia (a less severe but more chronic depression) (8.9%). This review highlights the mental health issues that HIV-positive MSM feel are significant enough to require treatment. Because mental health is a key component of overall quality of life, HIV providers who work with MSM can use these data to increase awareness of the types of mental concerns that are most distressing to this population.

Global assessment of psychosocial functioning in child and adolescent psychiatry. A review of three unidimensional scales (CGAS, GAF, GAPD)

Global assessment of functioning represents an important aspect of assessment in clinical practice and research. It can help identify persons in need of psychiatric treatment, have predictive value and measure change over time, including treatment effects. This review examines publications concerning development, psychometric properties and usefulness of three scales for children: Axis-VI in ICD-10 Global Assessment of Psychosocial Disability (GAPD), Children's Global Assessment Scale (CGAS) and Axis-V in DSM-IV Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (GAF). It is based on literature searches in PubMed and PsycInfo (1977-2003), and screening of Scandinavian and English textbooks on child psychiatry. The three scales differ in theoretical guidelines, descriptions of codes/anchor points and psychometric aspects. CGAS has been evaluated in 69 papers and 33 have been published on GAF used for children. The one paper comparing GAPD and CGAS found both scales sufficiently reliable for clinical practice. Reliability of CGAS and GAF has been found to vary from fair to substantial, depending on raters, training and diagnostic groups. International consensus for the use of one scale for global assessment of functioning for children 4-18 years would improve reliability in clinical practice and ease comparisons of studies across countries. A training programme would assist in this.