Abstract
BACKGROUND: To examine the similarities and differences among practice guidelines for managing bipolar disorders (BDs) in adults.
METHODS: A literature search in PubMed/Medline was performed using multiple search terms and bibliographies for guidelines from July 2013 (since FDA approval of lurasidone) to June 2017.
RESULTS: Six treatment guidelines for BDs in adults were identified. These guidelines showed consensus on first-line treatment of mania (moodstabilizer and/or an antipsychotic), and most first-line medications for bipolar depression. However, beyond first-line treatments, the guidelines' recommendations showed major differences. Some guidelines did not specify a type of BD. In addition, there was variability in the stages when important treatments, such as electroconvulsive therapy, should be considered and in the recommended treatment-or lack of recommended treatment-for mixed episodes and features.
CONCLUSIONS: This review found consistency across guidelines on first-line recommendations for treating manic and depressive episodes, but wide differences for second- and third-line treatments and for other phases of BD, therefore limiting the generation of any "meta-consensus." We recommend creating an international workgroup to reconcile the evidence and develop more unified international recommendations.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 266-282 |
Number of pages | 17 |
Journal | Annals of clinical psychiatry : official journal of the American Academy of Clinical Psychiatrists |
Volume | 29 |
Issue number | 4 |
State | Published - Nov 1 2017 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Medicine(all)