Use of calcium antagonists in mania

The organic calcium antagonist verapamil in doses of 320-480 mg/day reduced manic symptomatology in seven of eight patients manifesting a manic or schizomanic syndrome in a placebo-controlled, double-blind study. The delayed onset of antimanic effects parallels the action of lithium in acute mania. Common pharmacological profiles of lithium, certain anticonvulsants, and neuroleptics with regard to calcium dependent processes are discussed.