Aggressive Behavior

Question: My daughter is very aggressive, restless, paces all night, only wants to eat, has a level of hyperactivity she’s never had before, and spends her time throwing herself hard on the floor. I’d like to ask you what medications I can change and add. We’re desperate at home. Thank you so much. God bless you for such wonderful work in helping and supporting us.

Answer: I would suggest considering whether Fluoxetine 20 mg is causing activation, especially if it has been recently increased, as this is a common side effect that can cause hyperactivity, pacing, etc. If that is suspected, decreasing the fluoxetine to 10 mg is an option.

Legal Disclaimer: Please take note that the CdLS Foundation’s Ask the Expert service is comprised of volunteer professionals in various areas of focus. Response times may vary, and a response is not guaranteed. Answers are not considered a medical, behavioral, or educational consultation. Ask the Expert is not a substitute for the care and attention your child’s personal physician, psychologist, educational consultant, or social worker can deliver.