[Therapy of bipolar affective illnesses with valproate. A review of the literature].

Abstract

This paper gives an overall review of the literature since 1980 on the use of valproate in bipolar affective disorders. Randomised comparative studies definitely demonstrate that valproate proves superior in comparison with placebo and equivalent in comparison with lithium in the treatment of acute manic episodes. A series of open studies indicates a reduction in frequency and intensity of manic and depressive episodes with the long-term administration of valproate suggesting efficaciousness in the prophylaxis of bipolar affective disorders. Details on dosage, side effects and potential interactions with this group of patients are presented. Valproate constitutes a further valuable and well tolerated alternative to lithium, antipsychotic agents and carbamazepine not only in acute therapy of manic episodes but also in prophylactic treatment of patients with bipolar psychosis.

• Authors: A Retzow, H M Emrich
• Journal: Psychiatrische Praxis (Psychiatr Prax) Vol. 25 Issue 4 Pg. 163-71 (Jul 1998) ISSN: 0303-4259 [Print] Germany
• Vernacular Title: Therapie bipolarer affektiver Erkrankungen mit Valproat. Eine Literaturübersicht.
• PMID: 9738242 (Publication Type: Comparative Study, English Abstract, Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Anticonvulsants
• Antimanic Agents
• Valproic Acid

Topics

• Anticonvulsants (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Antimanic Agents (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Bipolar Disorder (diagnosis, drug therapy, psychology)
• Humans
• Long-Term Care
• Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
• Treatment Outcome
• Valproic Acid (administration & dosage, adverse effects)