Choosing pharmacotherapy in children and adolescents who present with bipolar major depression*

SGA: second-generation antipsychotic; SSRI: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor.
* Treatment of pediatric bipolar major depression with medication is based upon an evaluation that establishes the diagnosis and individualizes management. Psychotherapy is nearly always indicated as an adjunct to pharmacotherapy. Throughout the algorithm, the duration of an adequate trial is six to eight weeks, and response is defined as improvement ≥50%. Full details of choosing and administering pharmacotherapy for pediatric bipolar depression are discussed in the UpToDate topic on the treatment of bipolar major depression.
¶ Refer to the UpToDate topic on the treatment of bipolar major depression.