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Developing a Rat Model for Bipolar Disorder
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What psychotherapists should know about pharmacotherapies for bipolar disorder
1Affective Disorders Program, Silver Hill Hospital, New Canaan, CT 06840, USA. jfgoldberg@yahoo.com
Abstract:
This article provides a practice-friendly overview of current psychotropic agents used for the treatment of bipolar disorder. The author reviews definitions and concepts about mood stabilization according to the evidence base, in turn profiling a "clinical niche" for lithium, anticonvulsant drugs, atypical antipsychotics, and antidepressants. Results from randomized clinical trials are summarized to help clinicians individualize treatment decisions and tailor them to real-world patients. Recognition and management of common adverse effects are discussed alongside risk-benefit strategies to guide optimal treatment that balances clinical efficacy with drug safety and tolerability.
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