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The Use of Antiepileptic Drugs in Bipolar Disorders: A Review Based on Evidence From Controlled Trials

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  07 November 2014

Richard H. Weisler ,
Andrew J. Cutler ,
James C. Ballenger ,
Robert M. Post  and
Terence A. Ketter
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Abstract

Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) have diverse psychotropic profiles. Some AEDs have proven to be efficacious in the treatment of mood disorders, especially bipolar disorder. Others are ineffective as primary treatments but may be useful adjuncts for mood disorders or comorbid conditions. Valproate (acute mania and mixed episodes), carbamazepine (acute mania and mixed episodes), and lamotrigine (maintenance to delay recurrence) have United States Food and Drug Administration indications for the treatment of bipolar disorder. This article provides an overview of data on the use of AEDs in bipolar disorder, including acute mania and depression, prophylaxis, and rapid cycling.

Type
Review Article
Information
CNS Spectrums , Volume 11 , Issue 10 , October 2006 , pp. 788 - 799
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2006

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