What treatment is typically recommended for intermittent explosive disorder?

Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is characterized by recurrent episodes of impulsive aggression, which can lead to physical harm to others or property damage. The recommended treatment approach combines pharmacological and psychological strategies to address both the biological and behavioral components of the disorder.

The most established treatment for IED is the combination of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). SSRIs, which are commonly used as antidepressants, can help stabilize mood and reduce irritability and impulsivity associated with IED. CBT is beneficial as it equips individuals with coping strategies to manage their anger and alter negative thought patterns that can lead to aggressive outbursts. This combined approach has been shown to be effective in significantly reducing the frequency and intensity of aggressive episodes.

While antipsychotics might be prescribed in certain cases, especially if there are co-occurring psychiatric issues, they are not typically the frontline treatment for IED. Behavioral modification therapy and antidepressant monotherapy may be helpful for some individuals but do not address the disorder as comprehensively as the combination of SSRIs and CBT, which directly targets the pathological aggression and underlying cognitive processes involved in IED. Thus, the recommended treatment involves a comprehensive approach that is