According to a new study published on issue of Pediatrics, it was found that a bipolar drug that is mostly prescribed to adults is also successful on short-term basis for children.

A bipolar disorder is a mental condition marked by irregular periods of ecstasy and depression. The symptoms of bipolar disorder are hard to find in children and adults because in adolescence phase, normal ups and downs are frequently observed. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 3.4 million American kids and teens are estimated to experience the beginning of bipolar disorder.

Lithium and psychotherapy are the current treatments that are offered for bipolar disorder. Lithium medication is usually prescribed to adults only as mood stabilizers, and recently it has been found effective and safe for children too.

Tests were conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins Children's Center to find out whether lithium can be used to treat bipolar disorder on children. The researchers grouped 81 participants, to take lithium for eight weeks. The participants were between the ages of 7 and 17.

The authors wrote in a press release that the analysis showed improved results in children who took lithium dosage for treating bipolar disorder. Few side effects, including weight gain, reduced kidney and thyroid function, were also seen.

Dr. Victor Fornari, director of child and adolescent psychiatry at Zucker Hillside Hospital in Glen Oaks, NY, said to HealthDay News, “Until this study, there was no data to support the use of lithium in the treatment of youth with bipolar disorder. This study provides evidence to support the efficacy of lithium in the treatment of children with bipolar disorder in a manic state”.