A review of current bipolar disorder treatment guidelines

With the help of the Texas Implementation of Medication Algorithms (TIMA) and the American Psychiatric Association (APA) practice guidelines, primary care physicians can devise a treatment plan for their patients with bipolar disorder. Clinicians should keep in mind the goals of treatment, engage the patient in the treatment plan, and encourage the patient to keep a mood log and undertake psychoeducation or cognitive therapy. Patients who are unable to participate in treatment, who are suicidal, who have psychotic symptoms, or who require advanced treatments should be referred to a psychiatrist or hospital.