From the Research
For a 17-year-old struggling with anger and emotional regulation, clonidine is preferred as a first-line option due to its lower risk profile compared to Abilify, with therapy approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) also being essential for long-term emotional regulation. Clonidine, an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, is often used for adolescents with impulse control and anger issues, starting at 0.05-0.1mg once or twice daily and gradually increased if needed, with common side effects including sedation, dry mouth, and potential blood pressure changes 1. Abilify, an atypical antipsychotic, is generally reserved for more severe cases or when other treatments have failed, starting at 2-5mg daily with potential side effects including weight gain, metabolic changes, and movement disorders.
The choice between these medications should be made by a psychiatrist or physician who can evaluate the teen's specific symptoms, medical history, and other factors. Emotional dysregulation is a complex construct that can be associated with various psychiatric disorders, and its treatment should be comprehensive, considering the individual's genetic disposition, experience of trauma, and personal stress 2. Therapy approaches like CBT or DBT provide essential skills for long-term emotional regulation and should be used alongside medication. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor effectiveness and side effects, with vital signs checked frequently if clonidine is prescribed due to its effects on blood pressure and heart rate.
Some studies suggest that mindfulness-based stress reduction and cognitive-behavioral therapy can be effective in improving mental health and preventing depressive relapse 3, 4. However, the most recent and highest quality study on the topic of treating anger and emotional regulation in adolescents is not directly available, but the use of clonidine in similar cases has shown promise 1. Therefore, considering the potential benefits and risks, clonidine is recommended as a first-line treatment for a 17-year-old with difficulty managing anger and emotions, alongside therapy approaches like CBT or DBT.