Stepwise treatment of acute bipolar depression.

Abstract

One of the most controversial mood disorder management topics is how to manage bipolar depression, as evidenced by varying guidelines and, in particular, whether antidepressants should be prescribed. In relation to the latter, the first issue is that of efficacy while the second issue is their potential cost in that they may induce switching (into a hypo/manic state) or the induction of a mixed state and/or also worsen the long-term pattern of the disorder. Both issues are worthy of consideration before generating a framework of recommended treatment model. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.