A comparison of anticonvulsants in the treatment of impulsive aggression

Exp Clin Psychopharmacol. 2005 Feb;13(1):72-7. doi: 10.1037/1064-1297.13.1.72.

Abstract

This study compared the behavioral effects of 3 anticonvulsants in impulsive aggressive men. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel groups design, participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 6-week treatments: phenytoin (n = 7), carbamazepine (n = 7), valproate (n = 7), or placebo (n = 8). The efficacy measure was the average aggression score, a global severity index from the Overt Aggression Scale (J. M. Silver & S. C. Yudofsky, 1991). Analysis showed a significant reduction in impulsive aggression during all 3 anticonvulsant conditions compared with placebo. However, the treatment effect during carbamazepine administration was slightly delayed compared with phenytoin and valproate. These findings suggest that increased use of anticonvulsants could make a significant impact in the control of impulsive aggression in both mental health and criminal justice settings.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Comparative Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aggression / drug effects*
  • Anticonvulsants / therapeutic use*
  • Carbamazepine / therapeutic use
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Impulsive Behavior / classification
  • Impulsive Behavior / drug therapy*
  • Impulsive Behavior / psychology
  • Intelligence Tests
  • Male
  • Phenytoin / therapeutic use
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Valproic Acid / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Carbamazepine
  • Valproic Acid
  • Phenytoin