Divalproex Sodium (Depakote) for Explosive Tempers in Adolescents and Adults

Disruptive behavior disorders among children and adolescents are readily diagnosed; however, few individuals with such disorders receive drug treatment. Depakote is a mood stabilizing medication that may be beneficial in treating individuals with disruptive behavior disorders. The purpose of this study is to examine the effectiveness of Depakote in reducing temper outbursts and improving mood in individuals with disruptive behavior disorders. In addition, this study will determine the safety and effectiveness of Depakote in treating individuals with substance disorders who also have disruptive behavior disorders.

This study will last 6 weeks. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive treatment with Depakote or placebo. Medication will be given in a single evening dose if tolerated; otherwise, medication will be given twice per day. Participants will be assigned to a fixed-flexible dosing schedule and dosages will increase based on weight. All participants will attend weekly psychotherapy and family counseling sessions throughout the study. Participants who are substance abusers will also receive substance abuse counseling. Weekly study visits will include a physical exam, blood collection, and drug tests. Teachers and guidance counselors will be contacted to assess the participant's behavior from week to week. Some participants will complete a follow-up study, in which they will take part in phone interviews.

Inclusion criteria

• Meets DSM-IV criteria for a disruptive behavior disorder (e.g., oppositional/defiant disorder, conduct disorder)
• Explosive temper, defined as four or more outbursts of rage, property destruction, or fighting per month
• Mood liability, defined as having multiple, daily, distinct shifts from normal to irritable mood with withdrawn or boisterous behavior
• Chronic symptoms, defined of at least 1 year duration when not receiving treatment
• Impairment from the above symptoms in two or more areas, including school, the law, family, substance use, peers, or work (as manifested by a GAF score of 55 or less)
• Symptoms not limited to a particular place or to particular intimate relationships
• General good health
• Custodial parent or guardian gives informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• History of non drug-induced psychosis
• Seizure or other neurologic disturbance
• Pregnant
• Moderate to severe mental retardation
• Sexually active females who refuse to use an adequate method of contraception for the duration of the study
• Significant medical problems
• Current suicidal or homicidal ideation
• Uses barbiturates
• Refusal to permit weekly contact with school officials
• Bipolar I or II disorder
• Major depressive disorder
• First degree relative with bipolar I or II disorder
• Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder
• Post traumatic stress disorder
• Clinical evidence of hyperandrogenism in a female
• Liver disease
• Thrombocytopenia
• Pancreatic disease