An update on the diagnosis and treatment of mania in bipolar disorder.

Manic episodes are characterized by the triad of unstable mood, pressured speech and increased motor activity. This type of episode is often due to bipolar disorder. Benzodiazepines and antipsychotic agents are generally used in the acute emergency management of mania. Lithium, carbamazepine or a valproate preparation may be used for prophylactic control of mania, since long-term treatment with these agents is generally considered safe and effective. Concomitant psychotherapy and social support greatly improve the outcome of prophylactic drug therapy.