Treatment of bipolar disorder: how far have we come?

Research on bipolar disorder continues to indicate that recurrent episodes of mania and depression have a deteriorative effect on patient functioning, response to treatment, and prognosis. Lithium is the treatment of choice for both acute affective episodes and long-term maintenance, but not all patients respond adequately to lithium therapy. Alternatives or adjuncts to lithium in acute mania include carbamazepine, valproate, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and clozapine. For acute depression, antidepressants often are added to lithium treatment or used alone; nonpharmacologic options include ECT and light therapy. Studies suggest that carbamazepine and valproate may be as effective as lithium in maintenance therapy and that thyroid supplementation may increase response in rapid-cycling patients. Using psychosocial intervention in addition to maintenance pharmacologic treatment may increase medication compliance, decrease hospitalizations, and increase overall functioning.