Pediatrics and Paxil / Zoloft questions

[JNJ]

I need help with any anecdotal or research evidence on the use of Paxil in children please.

We have a six-and-a-half-year-old boy family member prescribed Zoloft (discontinued for hyperactivity) then Paxil, for anxiety. There is a ? over PTST diagnosis as the whole family was involved in a vehicle hijack with knives two years ago - no physical injuries.

Above average IQ (tested x 2), tends to be agressive. Refuses to go to school; runs off if left there. Has never been to school. Bright, caring, but sensible, parents running out of options, finally went with the med route. Incidentally, sociable, regular three-and-a-half year old sister, attending preschool, able to stand up to her older brother.

Since recent start of Paxil, agression seems to be increasing in the form of verbal threats, no actual incidents, but mother beginning to worry about this escalation. How long before positive effects might kick in? How long to wait out this increase in agression? Any ideas out there?

[kids]

My 12 yo stepson is on Paxil for the same "type" of reasons (and Xyprexa and Adderal).

I would say if the behaviors are not improved by 2 weeks and are not at a level that is an improvement over PRE medication behaviors by one month it is not working.

[researchrabbit]

I have worked on a few research studies with children and psych disorders.

From what we observed, Risperdol seems to help with aggression in children (we did a study with the liquid form). But they can gain HUGE amounts of weight.

In the studies we did, SSRIs appeared work well for depressed children, but not as well for anxious children, esp when the anxiety was mixed with symptoms of ADHD.

If the aggression is increasing, that's a sign to go back to the doc and request something else.

[kids]

Originally posted by researchrabbit

I have worked on a few research studies with children and psych disorders.

From what we observed, Risperdol seems to help with aggression in children (we did a study with the liquid form). But they can gain HUGE amounts of weight.

In the studies we did, SSRIs appeared work well for depressed children, but not as well for anxious children, esp when the anxiety was mixed with symptoms of ADHD.

If the aggression is increasing, that's a sign to go back to the doc and request something else.

I am sure glad you are around!

My experience with psych meds and kids is pretty limited.

[JNJ]

Thank you, Research Rabbit. JNJ

[researchrabbit]

Thanks! (blushing)