| ENCYCLOPEDIA INDEX |
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| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
Bipolar affective disorder |
| Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention |
| Alternative Names: |
| Bipolar disorder; Manic depressive illness |
| Treatment: |
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Hospitalization may be required during an acute phase to control the symptoms and for the safety of the patient. The mainstay of treatment are mood-stabilizing medications (such as valproic acid, lithium, and carbamazepine) which are effective for both the manic and the depressive phases as well as in preventing recurrence. Antidepressant drugs may be given during the depressive phase, while neuroleptic (antipsychotic) drugs and benzodiazepines are often used to control mania in the acute phase. Patients usually must take a mood stabilizer before antidepressants are given, since giving an antidepressant without a mood stabilizer may result in the patient becoming manic. In severe cases, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be used to treat persistent depression. ECT is a psychiatric treatment that causes a seizure of the central nervous system by means of an electrical current. It is used to treat severe depression and can be effective in manic disorders. Psychotherapy may also be needed for emotional support during the depressive and manic phases. |
| Support Groups: |
| The stress of illness can often be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
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Treatment with mood-stabilizing medication can prevent recurrence of symptoms. However, many people with this condition stop taking the medication as soon as they feel better, or because they want to experience the period preceding mania that can be productive and creative. Some people are almost "addicted" to the experience of this state, and it takes many negative consequences before they recognize the need to stay on medication. Proper medication use is also difficult to sustain because of side effects. People with this condition and their families need support to encourage proper medication use and to ensure that any episodes of mania and depression that do occur are treated as early as possible. Suicide in both phases is a very real risk and suicidal thoughts, ideas, and gestures in people with bipolar affective disorder require emergency attention. |
| Complications: |
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Disruption of relationships, work, and finances is common. Alcohol and other drug problems are another common complication. |
| Calling your health care provider: |
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Call your health care provider or mental health professional if you experience symptoms of bipolar affective disorder. |
Bipolar disorder |
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