Bipolar Disorder

A summary of some of the latest findings in bipolar disorder research.

The good, the bad, and the efficacy of lamotrigine.

Depression predominates across the lifespan in patients with bipolar disorder. Here: A discussion about (and beyond) the four FDA-approved drugs to treat symptoms.

We have nearly a dozen atypical antipsychotics to choose from, but do all of these work in bipolar disorder and which of them should we start with? Listen to the podcast.

Bipolar disorder heightens Parkinson risk, ADHD persistence may mediate bipolar spectrum disorder risk, and rapid cycling catalysts identified-these are some of the latest findings.

Recommendations for patients with serious mental illness to manage their finances safely and conveniently, with as much dignity, privacy, and autonomy as possible.

Bipolar disorder itself is a risk factor for renal impairment, and myths abound about lithium’s effect on the kidneys. Here are tips to mitigate potential damage.

Parental history shapes pediatric bipolar in offspring, no evidence for deterioration in neurocognitive functioning, clinical course predictors identified-these are some of the latest findings in bipolar disorder research.

The bipolar word can be frightening or confusing to patients, but there are ways to talk about it that engage them in recovery. More in this podcast.

Assessment of suicidal risk in adolescents is a solemn professional obligation that involves obtaining as much information as possible from family members or caregivers. Evaluation of mood disorders is an essential part of the assessment.

The evidence is clear: bipolar disorder is frequently both underdiagnosed and overdiagnosed.

Hear the latest insights about a popular sweetener that has been linked to mania.

Current estimates are that 4% to 5% of the population is at risk for a disorder on the bipolar spectrum. Among the patients of that spectrum are those with a disturbance of temperament in the direction of hypomania.

Ask a patient with depression how long it takes for them to feel fully awake in the morning and you are liable to get some revealing answers.

Call for better first-episode mania care, brain activation patterns predict risk, what’s important about atypical antipsychotics- find concise summaries of these and other key developments here.

Treatment failure risk is high, new biomarker of conversion from major depressive disorder, depression stifles creativity, and other recent findings are summarized here.

Utilizing our senses-sight, hearing, AND smell-during the patient interview can provide a comprehensive exam and assist in assessment and treatment.

Results of a recent study have implications for adolescents, who are the top consumers of this artificial sweetener.

Lithium’s most serious risk is renal insufficiency, and there are at least 3 ways to protect against this adverse effect. This and other tips to ensure safety.

The novel combination drug is designed to mitigate the weight gain associated with olanzapine.

In this podcast, Chris Aiken, MD reviews ways to reduce risks that can be associated with treatment for bipolar disorder.

This new FDA order now allows patients who need and want ECT, as well as practitioners who perform it, to breathe a sigh of relief.

Atypical antipsychotics play an important role in acute bipolar depression and mixed states, but one is an especially researched option for children.

Pediatric pearls with a focus on depression.

Behind the controversy is some common ground, buried deep in the DSM. New insights and podcast here.