Do recent efficacy data on the drug treatment of acute bipolar depression support the position that drugs other than antidepressants are the treatment of choice? A conceptual review

Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2006 Feb;256(1):1-16. doi: 10.1007/s00406-005-0591-9. Epub 2005 Aug 4.

Abstract

This conceptual review summarises the results of relevant studies on antidepressants, mood stabilisers such as lithium and anticonvulsants, and second generation antipsychotics in the indication of bipolar depression. Based on methodological and clinical considerations, the position of antidepressants and the possible alternatives in this indication are reviewed very carefully. In addition the regulatory requirements for licensing a drug for the indication "short-term treatment of bipolar depression" are described.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Affect / drug effects*
  • Anticonvulsants / adverse effects
  • Anticonvulsants / therapeutic use*
  • Antidepressive Agents / adverse effects
  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Antimanic Agents / adverse effects
  • Antimanic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Antipsychotic Agents / adverse effects
  • Antipsychotic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Bipolar Disorder / diagnosis
  • Bipolar Disorder / drug therapy*
  • Bipolar Disorder / psychology
  • Drug Approval
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Humans
  • Lithium Carbonate / adverse effects
  • Lithium Carbonate / therapeutic use
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Antidepressive Agents
  • Antimanic Agents
  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Lithium Carbonate