Graded Imipramine Regimen Favored In Hyperkinetic Children
Imipramine is the drug of choice when treating hyperkinetic children, two University of Vermont investigators contend.In a group of 52 children, clinical improvement was about the same as with amphetamines and other pharmacologic agents, but administration was easier and side-effects less frequent. Many also showed sleep pattern improvement.Speaking to the American Psychiatric Association, Hans R. Huessy, MD, acting chairman of the psychiatry department at the university's College of Medicine, and Alice L. Wright, MD, resident, outlined criteria for accepting the children, ages 3 to 14 years, into the study.A child had to exhibit at least three of the following bahavioral aberrations: hyperkinesis, distractability, impulsivity, aggressiveness, destructiveness, low frustration tolerance, poor coordination, temper tantrums, mood swings, difficulty with groups, poor school performance, or sleep problems.All children were of normal intelligence with a history of disruptive behavior in school