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Intermittent explosive disorder: epidemiology, diagnosis and management
1Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78284-7792, USA. olverar@UTHSCSA.edu
CNS Drugs
|July 5, 2002
Summary
Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) involves sudden episodes of aggression causing harm. Diagnosis requires medical evaluation, and while treatments are limited, medications and behavioral therapies may help manage symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Neurology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is defined by recurrent, impulsive aggressive outbursts.
- These episodes lead to significant assaultive behavior or property destruction.
- IED severely impacts an individual's daily functioning and quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diagnostic criteria and treatment options for Intermittent Explosive Disorder.
- To highlight the importance of thorough medical work-up in diagnosing IED.
- To summarize current evidence for pharmacological and behavioral interventions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on IED diagnosis and treatment.
- Analysis of evidence for various pharmacological agents.
- Consideration of behavioral interventions in managing aggressive impulses.
Main Results:
- IED diagnosis necessitates excluding other medical and psychiatric conditions.
- A lack of controlled trials exists for many IED treatments.
- Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, beta-blockers, alpha(2)-agonists, phenytoin, and antidepressants show potential utility.
- Behavioral interventions are recognized as valuable adjuncts.
Conclusions:
- Comprehensive medical and diagnostic assessment is crucial for IED.
- Pharmacological and behavioral strategies offer therapeutic avenues for IED management.
- Further controlled research is needed to establish definitive treatment protocols.