Naturalistic treatment and follow-up for youth with bipolar spectrum disorders

A Collaborative Treatment Network for Youth With or at High Risk for Bipolar Disorder

Observational University of California, Los Angeles · NCT05427123

This study looks at young people aged 9 to 19 with bipolar spectrum disorders to see how well they do over a year while receiving standard treatments and tracking their progress.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages9 Years to 19 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of California, Los Angeles Academic / other
Locations4 sites (Los Angeles, California and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05427123 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study focuses on youth aged 9 to 19 diagnosed with bipolar spectrum disorders across four US sites. It aims to reliably diagnose these youth and examine predictors of clinical outcomes over a 12-month period. Participants will undergo a structured diagnostic interview and a blood draw to measure inflammatory markers, followed by multiple follow-up visits involving interviews and questionnaires. The study will track medication management and psychosocial treatments as per established guidelines.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are youth aged 9 to 19 diagnosed with bipolar disorder or related conditions who can participate in assessments with their caregivers.

Not a fit: Patients with autism spectrum disorder or those with recent substance abuse issues may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies and outcomes for youth with bipolar spectrum disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in similar approaches, particularly in optimizing treatments for pediatric bipolar disorders.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Youth 9-19 years old
* Youth diagnosed with Bipolar disorder (I, II, Other Specified) or Cyclothymic Disorder by the study team during the diagnostic interview screening
* Youth is able to read and communicate in English to the degree necessary to be able to assent and participate (with help) in their treatment and assessments appropriate for ages 9 and up
* Youth has a caregiver able to participate in ongoing basis in assessment and treatment
* The participating caregiver can reliably read and communicate in English for purposes of study consenting, assessment, and treatment, unless preferred language translation services are regularly available.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Youth has DSM-5 diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder
* Youth has DSM-5 diagnosis of substance or alcohol abuse with impairment within 3 mos.
* Youth has a medical or psychiatric disorder that is life-threatening or requires immediate hospitalization or emergency medical or therapeutic treatment
* Evidence of recent sexual or physical abuse of the youth by legally responsible caregivers
* Evidence of recent intimate partner violence between caregivers responsible for the youth's care

Where this trial is running

Los Angeles, California and 3 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Bipolar DisorderBipolar I DisorderBipolar II DisorderOther Specified Bipolar and Related DisorderMood InstabilityChild Mental DisorderAdolescent - Emotional Problemmedication
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.