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Flashcards in bipolar disorder Deck (13)
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1
Q

are genetic factors important in the aetiology of bipolar disorder?

A

yes, genetic factors are very important

2
Q

what kind of medications are most helpful in bipolar disorder?

A

medications that decrease neuron excitability

3
Q

which occurs more? Depressive episodes or manic ones?

A

depressive episodes outnumber manic episodes and are often of more intense concern to the individual

4
Q

how is bipolar depression different from unipolar depression?

A

Different because preferred medication approaches are very different. Bipolar disorder can’t be treated with antidepressants. Antidepressants can switch a person from a depressive episode into a manic one

5
Q

is it suggested to use antidepressants to treat people with bipolar disorder?

A

no, because we want to avoid the flip into mania

6
Q

how do we treat bipolar disorder?

A

acute care may involve benzodiacepines & antipsychotics. Best evidence for long-term benefit are mood stabilizers

7
Q

What is the optimal long-term management for bipolar disorder?

A

mood stabilizer + an antipsychotic with non-pharm supports including sleep cycle management

8
Q

what are some manic phase warning signs?

A
  • mood changes - elevated/expansive, irritability, easily “spiked”
  • increased energy/restlessness
  • rapid/pressured speech
  • impaired judgement/impulsivity
  • distractible, flight of ideas
  • psychotic “flavor” is possible
9
Q

what is a mixed episode?

A

simultaneous symptoms of depression and mania

10
Q

what kind of drugs can trigger mania in bipolar disorder?

A
  • drugs that increase neurotransmitters (5HT, NE, DA)
11
Q

levels of ____ are increased in post-mortem individuals

A

glutamate

12
Q

what is the difference between bipolar 1 and bipolar 2?

A

bipolar 1 - indicates at least one severe manic episode

bipolar 2 - patients who experience less severe manic symptoms

13
Q

what mood stabilizers are used in bipolar disorder?

A
  1. lithium
  2. anticonvulsants
  3. antipsychotics
  4. Calcium Channel Blockers