Q. I have a 5 yr. old male that has been put on Paxil, 2cc a day for anger and aggression.
I am concerned that there my be Bi-Polar in the very, very close family and it has not been diagnosed in the family member or him.
I can not find any information concerning Paxil and its effects on children of this age. It appears to have helped level out the moodswings, but he is not in any therapy, counseling , etc.
A. It's extremely difficult to diagnose and treat children, especially children at that age. It's common to make diagnoses and be proven wrong later. One can only do the best one can with the information available. Flexibility and openness are necessary for the parents and health care providers.
As far as I know there is no scientific data regarding Paxil in children, particularly children at that age. The physicians need to do the best they can. The risks of not treating are enormous, while the risks of treating are likely much less. It's a difficult decision for everyone, and you and the physicians are certain to be second guessed.
It would be an excellent idea for the child and your family to get counseling. It would also be a good idea for both parents to have all their diagnoses made and treated, and to learn parenting skills and as much as possible about mental health and living a happy, peaceful life. Knowledge is indeed power, the power to be successful in your life and as a parent.