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Developing a Rat Model for Bipolar Disorder
Published on: May 2, 2025
Divalproex extended-release in acute bipolar II depression.
P W Wang1, C Nowakowska, R A Chandler
1Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA. wangp0@stanford.edu
Journal of Affective Disorders
|November 20, 2009
Summary
Divalproex extended-release (divalproex-ER) showed a 54% response rate in bipolar II depression. This pilot study suggests divalproex-ER is well-tolerated and effective for treating bipolar depression.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Divalproex extended-release (divalproex-ER) is established for acute mania.
- Limited evidence suggests potential efficacy for divalproex in acute bipolar depression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of divalproex-ER in patients with bipolar II depression.
- To assess divalproex-ER as monotherapy or adjunctive treatment.
Main Methods:
- A 7-week, open-label trial involving 28 outpatients with bipolar II depression.
- Divalproex-ER dosage was titrated based on symptom relief or adverse effects.
- Efficacy was measured weekly using the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS).
Main Results:
- Mean final divalproex-ER dose was 1469mg/day with serum concentrations of 80.1microg/mL.
- Significant reduction in mean MADRS scores from 30.1 to 15.2 (p<.00001).
- An overall response rate of 54% was observed, with good tolerability and no early discontinuations due to adverse events.
Conclusions:
- Divalproex-ER demonstrated a 54% response rate and was well-tolerated in bipolar II depression.
- This pilot study supports the need for larger, placebo-controlled trials.
- Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies of divalproex-ER in bipolar II depression are warranted.
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