Pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions for adolescent irritability: a systematic review and meta-analysis
摘要
This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to synthesize evidence on the efficacy of current pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions for irritability management in children and adolescents.
MethodsIn total, 1144 abstracts were reviewed; 58 randomized controlled trials were selected for meta-analysis. A random-effects model was used, with a subgroup analysis to assess the effects of study design and intervention type.
ResultsAntipsychotics—particularly in combination regimens (Cohen’s d = − 0.72) demonstrated the most significant efficacy in alleviating irritability among children and adolescents, with risperidone being the predominant agent (27/30 studies). Among non-pharmacological interventions, Parent Training (PT, d = − 0.45) constituted the most extensively studied approach despite moderate efficacy, while Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT, d = − 1.89) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children (DBT-C, d = − 1.04) showed higher effect magnitudes yet were supported by limited evidence from single small-scale trials.
ConclusionsThis meta-analysis provides a comprehensive review of interventions targeting persistent non-episodic irritability in children and adolescents with various psychiatric disorders. Pharmacological interventions demonstrated the strongest effects, particularly antipsychotics and combination pharmacotherapy, though antipsychotics necessitate vigilance regarding adverse reactions. Nonpharmacological approaches remain first-line for preschoolers, with LLLT and DBT-C showing promising efficacy that merits comparative studies against PT.