Seizure Drug May Decrease Aggressive Behavior in ADHD Children

The anti-seizure drug divalproex can help attention deficit children control aggression, according to a new study from Stony Brook University School of Medicine.

An anti-seizure drug may help children with attention deficit disorder rein in their aggression.

A new study at Stony Brook University School of Medicine tested the effects of the anti-seizure drug divalproex on ADHD children; divalproex had previously been shown to decrease aggression in youths with psychiatric disorders. Study participants included 30 ADHD youths, ages six to 13, who exhibited aggressive behavior despite taking ADHD stimulants.

According to Reuters via ABC News:

“Half of the children received divalproex in addition to their regular ADHD treatment, while half received a placebo, or inactive, pill, plus their usual medications. All of the children's families had weekly behavioral therapy.

Three of the children either left the study before it was completed, or could not be found for follow-up testing. Eight of 14 patients in the divalproex group exhibited less aggressive behavior, compared to just 2 of 13 in the placebo group.”

Read more about the study at abcnews.go.com.