Treatment of bipolar disorder

Effects of lithium on mortality and metabolite profiles in Drosophila lithium-inducible SLC6 transporter mutants

Lithium has long been the primary treatment for bipolar disorder and shows promise for managing other neurological and psychiatric conditions. We previously identified the Lithium-inducible SLC6 transporter (List) in Drosophila melanogaster as a gene significantly upregulated in response to lithium chloride supplementation. List encodes a putative amino acid transporter belonging to the Na⁺-dependent solute carrier family 6. Here, we show that List is expressed in the Malpighian tubules, glia, and hindgut. RNA interference-mediated List knockdown in the Malpighian tubules drastically increases lithium-induced mortality. Additionally, List loss-of-function mutants (ListTG4.2) accumulate six times more internal lithium than controls after lithium exposure. Metabolomic analysis revealed disrupted amino acid metabolism and a shift toward a more oxidized cellular redox state in lithium-treated ListTG4.2 mutants. Overall, our findings suggest that List protects flies from lithium toxicity by regulating internal lithium levels and maintaining metabolic and redox balance.

Challenges of lithium prescription in bipolar disorders in Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Lithium prescription rates have witnessed a significant downward trend over the years in different continents despite evidence of its clinical efficacy in the acute and long-term maintenance treatment of Bipolar Disorder (BD). Nigeria has a paucity of data on lithium use in BD management. Hence, we aim to investigate the lithium prescription rate and factors influencing its use among Nigerian psychiatrists and trainee psychiatrists.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey involving 203 respondents working in different accredited psychiatric training facilities in Nigeria was conducted between April and May 2024 using a predesigned online Google form. Information relating to lithium use in managing the different phases of BD and factors influencing its use were assessed.

RESULTS

The mean age of the respondents was 37.98 (± 6.85) years. The lithium prescription rate is low (10.89%). There is a significant association between the respondents' awareness of clinical practice guidelines (CPG) and good adherence to CPG (p = 0.003), but this did not significantly influence lithium prescription among them. Older years of practice influence prescribing lithium (p = < 0.001). Monitoring and availability of lithium constituted significant concerns for lithium use, among other factors (p = 0.032).

CONCLUSION

The study revealed a low lithium prescription rate among Nigerian psychiatrists and trainee psychiatrists compared to international studies. There is a need for concerted efforts towards addressing the identified factors. A review of the existing local CPG in line with the best evidence is warranted for improved clinical outcomes.

ETHICS REGISTRATION

The study was approved by the Hospital Research and Ethical Committee (HREC) of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) with approval protocol number (UPTH/ADM/90/S.11/VOL.XI/1688).

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER

Not applicable.

Psychedelic use and bipolar disorder - An investigation of recreational use and its impact on mental health

Psychedelic substances such as psilocybin have recently gained attention for their potential therapeutic benefits in treating depression and other mental health problems. However, individuals with bipolar disorder (BD) have been excluded from most clinical trials due to concerns about manic switches or psychosis. This study aimed to systematically examine the effects of recreational psychedelic use in individuals with BD. Using the Timeline Followback (TLFB) method, we assessed mood symptoms, substance use, and other mental health-related variables in the month before and three months following participants' most recent psychedelic experience. Results showed a significant reduction in depressive symptoms and cannabis use, an increase in the number of days without mental health symptoms, and an increase in the number of days with hallucinogen use. Importantly, no significant changes in (hypo)manic, psychotic, or anxiety symptoms were observed. These findings suggest that psychedelics may hold potential as a safe and effective treatment for BD, though further research, including randomized controlled trials, is needed.

Genomics yields biological and phenotypic insights into bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a leading contributor to the global burden of disease1. Despite high heritability (60-80%), the majority of the underlying genetic determinants remain unknown2. We analysed data from participants of European, East Asian, African American and Latino ancestries (n = 158,036 cases with bipolar disorder, 2.8 million controls), combining clinical, community and self-reported samples. We identified 298 genome-wide significant loci in the multi-ancestry meta-analysis, a fourfold increase over previous findings3, and identified an ancestry-specific association in the East Asian cohort. Integrating results from fine-mapping and other variant-to-gene mapping approaches identified 36 credible genes in the aetiology of bipolar disorder. Genes prioritized through fine-mapping were enriched for ultra-rare damaging missense and protein-truncating variations in cases with bipolar disorder4, highlighting convergence of common and rare variant signals. We report differences in the genetic architecture of bipolar disorder depending on the source of patient ascertainment and on bipolar disorder subtype (type I or type II). Several analyses implicate specific cell types in the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder, including GABAergic interneurons and medium spiny neurons. Together, these analyses provide additional insights into the genetic architecture and biological underpinnings of bipolar disorder.

Understanding Relapse in Bipolar Disorder at a Tertiary Mental Health Facility in Uganda

Background

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic psychiatric condition characterized by recurrent episodes of mania, hypomania, and depression, affecting approximately 1 in 150 adults globally. BD contributes significantly to disability and years of life lost, with a notable prevalence in Africa. The high relapse rates in BD, exacerbated by limited mental health resources and underdiagnosis, highlight the need for targeted interventions. This study explores the factors contributing to relapse among BD patients at Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, Uganda, a crucial mental health facility in the region.

Methods

This cross-sectional qualitative study was conducted at Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital. Adult patients aged 18-65, diagnosed with BD and experiencing relapse after treatment, were included. Data were collected through purposive sampling, focusing on obtaining detailed personal accounts from approximately 15 participants until data saturation was achieved. Thematic analysis identified key themes and subthemes related to relapse factors.

Results

Five major themes emerged: treatment adherence, psychosocial factors, cultural beliefs, economic challenges, and coping mechanisms. Non-adherence to medication, driven by side effects, forgetfulness, and financial constraints, was a significant relapse factor. Psychosocial stressors, such as life events and social isolation, alongside stigma and cultural beliefs in traditional healing, further complicated relapse patterns. Economic hardships affected medication access and treatment consistency. Supportive social networks and psychoeducation emerged as crucial for effective management and relapse prevention.

Conclusion

Addressing medication adherence, psychosocial stressors, cultural beliefs, and economic barriers through a holistic approach integrating medical treatment with psychoeducation and support systems is essential for improving patient outcomes and reducing relapse rates in this setting. Therefore, the effective management of bipolar disorder at Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital requires a complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids for the Treatment of Bipolar Disorder Symptoms: A Narrative Review of the Current Clinical Evidence

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental disease that is characterized by depressive and manic episodes. Antipsychotics and mood stabilizers are known therapies that work, but their restrictions and disadvantages resulted in the need for complementary and alternative therapies, such as natural compounds. Omega-3 fatty acids, as basic ingredients of fishes and seafood, play crucial roles in brain development, function of brain membrane enzymes, learning, and many other instances, and their deficiency has been associated with many mental diseases, including bipolar disorder.

METHODS

The present narrative review aims to critically summarize and scrutinize the available clinical studies on the use of omega-3 fatty acids in the management and co-treatment of bipolar disorder episodes and symptoms. For this purpose, a thorough and in-depth search was performed in the most accurate scientific databases, e.g., PubMed., Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, Embase, and Google Scholar, applying effective and relevant keywords.

RESULTS

There are currently several clinical studies that assessed the effect of omega-3 fatty acids on the severity of BD symptoms. Some of them supported evidence for the potential beneficial impact of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation in the prevention and/or co-treatment of bipolar disorder severity and symptomatology. Nevertheless, a considerable number of clinical studies did not show high efficiency, rendering the existing data rather conflicting. The above may be ascribed to the fact that there is a high heterogeneity amongst the available clinical studies concerning the dosage, the administration duration, the combination of fatty acids administration, the method designs and protocols, and the study populations.

CONCLUSION

Although the currently available clinical evidence seems promising, it is highly recommended to accomplish larger, long-term, randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trials with a prospective design in order to derive conclusive results as to whether omega-fatty acids could act as a co-treatment agent or even as protective factors against bipolar disorder symptomatology. Drug design strategies could be developed to derive novel synthetic omega-3 fatty acids analogs, which could be tested for their potential to attenuate the severity of BD episodes and symptoms.

Comprehensive bibliometric analysis of pharmacotherapy for bipolar disorders: Present trends and future directions

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a severe mental illness characterized by significant mood swings. Effective drug treatment modalities are crucial for managing BD.

AIM

To analyze the current status and future trends of global research on BD drug treatment over the last decade.

METHODS

The Web of Science Core Collection database spanning from 2015 to 2024 was utilized to retrieve literature related to BD drug treatment. A total of 2624 articles were extracted. Data visualization and analysis were conducted using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, Pajek, Scimago Graphica, and R-studio bibliometrix to identify research hotspots, key contributors, and future trends.

RESULTS

The United States, China, and the United Kingdom have made the most significant contributions to research on BD drug treatment and formed notable research collaboration networks. The University of Pittsburgh, Massachusetts General Hospital, and the University of Michigan have been identified as the major research institutions in this field. The Journal of Affective Disorders is the most influential journal. A keyword analysis revealed research hotspots related to clinical symptoms, drug efficacy, and genetic mechanisms. A citation analysis identified the management guidelines published by Yatham et al in 2018 as the most cited paper.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a detailed overview of the field of BD drug treatment, highlighting key contributors, research hotspots, and future directions. The study findings can be employed as a reference for future research and policymaking, which may enable further development and optimization of BD pharmacotherapy.

Bipolar Disorders in Saudi Arabia: What Do We Know So Far?

Bipolar disorders (BP) are prevalent neuropsychiatric illnesses affecting 1%-5% of the global population and about 3% of the Saudi population. They are associated with significant comorbidities and negative consequences. Despite being common mental health conditions in Saudi Arabia, stigma persists, with weak character, supernatural beliefs, and weak faith considered as causes. In addition, Saudi patients with BP have been reported to seek help from non-psychiatric healthcare professionals and faith healers. More data are required on BP from Saudi Arabia, including the genetic aspects and their treatment approaches. This narrative review paper explores the epidemiology and clinical manifestations, etiology and biological mechanisms, public knowledge and awareness of the illnesses, and treatment of BP in Saudi Arabia.

Budget impact of aripiprazole once every 2 months long-acting injectable for adult patients with bipolar I disorder in the United States

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder is a severe recurrent, episodic psychiatric condition with a worldwide prevalence of approximately 1%, affecting more than 5 million adults in the United States in 2020. A subtype, bipolar I disorder (BP-I), which accounts for approximately one-quarter of cases, is associated with impairments in psychosocial functioning and quality of life. Recommended treatment options include daily oral, or long-acting injectable, antipsychotics, including the aripiprazole once every month formulation, which has been shown to improve adherence compared with oral treatments. A new formulation of aripiprazole for administration once every 2 months ready to use (Ari 2MRTU) has been shown to have similar efficacy to monthly treatment, with only 6 doses annually.

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the financial impact of introducing the new formulation of aripiprazole as a treatment option for adults diagnosed with BP-I in the United States.

METHODS

A cohort of eligible patients with BP-I was selected from a hypothetical US health plan of 1 million members, and the treatment costs modeled with a 3-year time horizon, in scenarios with or without the addition of Ari 2MRTU. Inputs into the model included user-definable estimates of the current and projected market share of the available antipsychotics, forecast uptake of aripiprazole new formulation, acquisition, initiation, and administration costs, hospitalization costs, time on treatment, and patient adherence. The budget impact was estimated as the difference in the annual cost for the total cohort for the current and new scenarios, the cost per member per month, and the cost per treated member per month. Deterministic sensitivity analyses were also conducted to examine the extent to which the model results were affected by variations in individual input parameters.

RESULTS

The total budget impact of introducing a formulation of Ari 2MRTU as maintenance monotherapy for treating a cohort of eligible patients with BP-I in the United States from a health plan of 1 million members was estimated to be $898,930 over 3 years, representing a per member per month cost saving of $0.025 and a per treated member per month cost saving of $2.43. The sensitivity analysis supports a modest reduction in budget, with the main driver being adherence with medication regimen.

CONCLUSIONS

The introduction of Ari 2MRTU as a maintenance treatment for adults with BP-I is expected to have a neutral effect on payer budgets in the United States and is a potentially favorable option for patients who prefer less frequent dosing.

Neuromodulation Strategies in Lifelong Bipolar Disorder: A Narrative Review

Bipolar disorder is a debilitating psychiatric condition characterized by recurrent episodes of mania and depression, affecting millions worldwide. While pharmacotherapy remains the cornerstone of treatment, a significant proportion of patients exhibit inadequate response or intolerable side effects to conventional medications. In recent years, neuromodulation techniques have emerged as promising adjunctive or alternative treatments for bipolar disorder. We performed a narrative review, according to the Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles (SANRA) guidelines, to provide a comprehensive overview of the current literature on neuromodulation interventions in bipolar disorder across the course of lifespan. Specifically, it examines the efficacy, safety, and mechanisms of action of various neuromodulation strategies, including, among others, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), deep brain stimulation (DBS), and it describes the therapeutic experiences across the different ages of illness. Additionally, this review discusses the clinical implications, challenges, and future directions of the integration, in clinical practice, of neuromodulation into the management of bipolar disorder. By synthesizing evidence from different studies, this review aims to inform clinicians, researchers, and stakeholders about the evolving landscape of neuromodulation treatments and their potential role in improving outcomes for individuals with bipolar disorder.

Personality functioning in bipolar 1 disorder and borderline personality disorder

BACKGROUND

Differentiation of borderline personality disorder (BPD) and bipolar I disorder (BD) has been challenging. The assessment of shared symptoms in the context of the overall personality functioning, the patient's sense of self, and the quality of his object (interpersonal) relations is proposed to be valuable for the differential diagnosis of these disorders.

METHODS

We empirically investigated the level of personality organization (PO), identity integration, and quality of object relations in patients suffering from BD or BPD using the Structured Interview of Personality Organization (STIPO) and the Level of Personality Functioning Scale (LPFS) in 34 BPD and 28 BD patients as well as 27 healthy control persons. Group comparisons and a logistic regression model were calculated to analyze group differences.

RESULTS

The BPD group showed significantly greater impairment in several domains of personality functioning, namely "identity", and "self- and other-directed aggression", while showing lower impairment in "moral values". The overall level of PO in the BPD group was significantly lower when excluding not only BPD but any personality disorder (PD) in the BD sample. Severity of impaired personality structure had a major impact on symptom load independent of the main diagnosis BD or BPD.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data show greater impairment in personality functioning in BPD than in BD patients. BD patients present with varying levels of PO, whereas in BPD severe deficits in PO are pathognomonic. The level of PO has a significant impact on symptom severity in both BD and BPD patients. Therefore, careful assessment of PO should be considered for differential diagnosis and adequate treatment planning.

Lithium-associated hypercalcemia and hyperparathyroidism: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to review and summarise the existing human literature on the association between lithium and hyperparathyroidism.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was carried out according to PRISMA guidelines (last search 27 February 2024), using MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase and the Cochrane Library. A meta-analysis was performed to determine the prevalence of lithium-associated hypercalcemia (LAHca) in lithium-treated patients.

RESULTS

The pooled prevalence of LAHca based on total calcium and ionised calcium was comparable, at 3.17% and 4.23%, respectively. Calcium, and PTH if the patient is hypercalcaemic, is insufficiently measured in lithium-treated patients in clinical practice. Lithium use is associated with higher calcium and PTH levels, as well as a higher incidence of hyperparathyroidism. There is a high prevalence of multiglandular disease in lithium-associated hyperparathyroidism (LAH), with a pooled prevalence of 51.28%. Parathyroid surgery and cinacalcet are effective treatments for LAH. Regarding lithium discontinuation, there is anecdotal but conflicting evidence suggesting that it can result in the resolution of LAH in selected cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Lithium treatment increases the risk of hyperparathyroidism, a treatable complication with a pooled prevalence of around 4%, compared to 0.5% in the healthy population.

Cariprazine in Psychiatry: A Comprehensive Review of Efficacy, Safety, and Therapeutic Potential

This article provides a comprehensive review of recent developments regarding a new atypical antipsychotic drug - cariprazine - considering the mechanism of action, efficacy, safety, and promising therapeutic option for various psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, therapy of addictions, and treatment in the pediatric population. Its distinct pharmacological profile, characterized by partial agonism at dopamine D2 and D3 receptors, as well as serotonin receptors - 5HT1A with a preference for the D3 receptor - sets it apart from other antipsychotics. The unique mechanism of action contributes to cariprazine's positive impact on negative symptoms in schizophrenia and an antidepressant effect. Its relatively low risk of adverse effects, such as sedation, metabolic issues, and hypotension, enhances its tolerability. In bipolar affective disorder, cariprazine exhibits effectiveness in managing both depressive and manic episodes. Ongoing research in pediatric populations suggests potential benefits in schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, and autism spectrum disorder, but further research is necessary to establish safety and efficacy. Moreover, cariprazine shows promise in addiction therapy, particularly with coexisting psychiatric disorders. Continued research and clinical exploration may discover additional insights, broadening its use in diverse patient populations. This article aims to review the role of cariprazine, a dopamine D2/D3 and serotonin 5-HT1A receptor partial agonist, in the management of psychotic illnesses, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, addiction therapy, and pediatric treatment.

Advances in Mood Disorder Pharmacotherapy: Evaluating New Antipsychotics and Mood Stabilizers for Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia

This article provides a narrative review of recent developments in mood-stabilizing drugs, considering their mechanism of action, efficacy, safety, and therapeutic potential in the treatment of mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. The review focuses on the mechanism and clinical aspects of second-generation antipsychotic medications; aripiprazole, classified as a third-generation antipsychotic medication; lamotrigine, as a representative of antiepileptic drugs; and lurasidone, a novel second-generation antipsychotic medication. Moreover, the article refers to one of the newest and most highly effective normothymic drugs, cariprazine. The potential of new mood stabilizer candidates lumateperone and brexpiprazole is also presented. Covered topics include the clinical efficacy of new drugs in reducing manic and depressive symptoms during acute episodes, as well as their role in preventing relapse. In addition, we analyzed the incidence of adverse effects of each drug. Many of the new drugs have strong potential to be beneficial and safe in cases of many comorbidities, as they do not cause many adverse effects and do not require high doses of use. The results underscore the importance of ongoing and future research to better understand the action and efficacy of these mood stabilizers and their implications in the treatment of mood disorders, aiming to achieve euthymia and improve the quality of life of affected patients. In this article, we aim to review current drug treatments for the management of mood disorders, including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Neurophysiological profiles of patients with bipolar disorders as probed with transcranial magnetic stimulation: A systematic review

AIM

Bipolar disorder (BD) has a significant impact on global health, yet its neurophysiological basis remains poorly understood. Conventional treatments have limitations, highlighting the need for a better understanding of the neurophysiology of BD for early diagnosis and novel therapeutic strategies.

DESIGN

Employing a systematic review approach of the PRISMA guidelines, this study assessed the usefulness and validity of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) neurophysiology in patients with BD.

METHODS

Databases searched included PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and PsycINFO, covering studies from January 1985 to January 2024.

RESULTS

Out of 6597 articles screened, nine studies met the inclusion criteria, providing neurophysiological insights into the pathophysiological basis of BD using TMS-electromyography and TMS-electroencephalography methods. Findings revealed significant neurophysiological impairments in patients with BD compared to healthy controls, specifically in cortical inhibition and excitability. In particular, short-interval cortical inhibition (SICI) was consistently diminished in BD across the studies, which suggests a fundamental impairment of cortical inhibitory function in BD. This systematic review corroborates the potential utility of TMS neurophysiology in elucidating the pathophysiological basis of BD. Specifically, the reduced cortical inhibition in the SICI paradigm observed in patients with BD suggests gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-A receptor-mediated dysfunction, but results from other TMS paradigms have been inconsistent. Thus, complex neurophysiological processes may be involved in the pathological basis underlying BD. This study demonstrated that BD has a neural basis involving impaired GABAergic function, and it is highly expected that further research on TMS neurophysiology will further elucidate the pathophysiological basis of BD.

Effect of prior depression diagnosis on bipolar disorder outcomes: A retrospective cohort study using a medical claims database

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder often emerges from depressive episodes and is initially diagnosed as depression. This study aimed to explore the effects of a prior depression diagnosis on outcomes in patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

METHODS

This cohort study analyzed data of patients aged 18-64 years who received a new bipolar disorder diagnosis in Japan, using medical claims data from January 2005 to October 2020 provided by JMDC, Inc. The index month was defined as the time of the bipolar diagnosis. The study assessed the incidence of psychiatric hospitalization, all-cause hospitalization, and mortality, stratified by the presence of a preceding depression diagnosis and its duration (≥1 or <1 year). Hazard ratios (HRs) and p-values were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models, adjusted for potential confounders, and supported by log-rank tests.

RESULTS

Of the 5595 patients analyzed, 2460 had a history of depression, with 1049 experiencing it for over a year and 1411 for less than a year. HRs for psychiatric hospitalization, all hospitalizations, and death in patients with a history of depression versus those without were 0.92 (95% CI = 0.78-1.08, p = 0.30), 0.87 (95% CI = 0.78-0.98, p = 0.017), and 0.61 (95% CI = 0.33-1.12, p = 0.11), respectively. In patients with preceding depression ≥1 year versus <1 year, HRs were 0.89 (95% CI = 0.67-1.19, p = 0.43) for psychiatric hospitalization, 0.85 (95% CI = 0.71-1.00, p = 0.052) for all hospitalizations, and 0.25 (95% CI = 0.07-0.89, p = 0.03) for death.

CONCLUSION

A prior history and duration of depression may not elevate psychiatric hospitalization risk after bipolar disorder diagnosis and might even correlate with reduced hospitalization and mortality rates.

Progress and trends of research on mineral elements for depression

Objective

To explore the research progress and trends on mineral elements and depression.

Methods

After querying the MeSH database and referring to the search rules, the search terms were selected and optimized to obtain the target literature collection. We analyzed the general characteristics of the literature, conducted network clustering and co-occurrence analysis, and carried out a narrative review of crucial literature.

Results

Bipolar disorder was a dominant topic in the retrieved literature, which saw a significant increase in 2010 and 2019-2020. Most studies focused on mineral elements, including lithium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and copper. The majority of journals and disciplines were in the fields of psychiatry, neuropsychology, neuropharmacology, nutrition, medical informatics, chemistry, and public health. The United States had the highest proportion in terms of paper sources, most-cited articles, high-frequency citations, frontier citations, and high centrality citation. Regarding the influence of academic institutions, the top five were King's College London, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Barcelona, INSERM, and Heidelberg University. Frontier keywords included bipolar disorder, drinking water, (neuro)inflammation, gut microbiota, and systematic analysis. Research on lithium response, magnesium supplementation, and treatment-resistant unipolar depression increased significantly after 2013.

Conclusion

Global adverse events may have indirectly driven the progress in related research. Although the literature from the United States represents an absolute majority, its influence on academic institutions is relatively weaker. Multiple pieces of evidence support the efficacy of lithium in treating bipolar disorder (BD). A series of key discoveries have led to a paradigm shift in research, leading to increasingly detailed studies on the role of magnesium, calcium, zinc, and copper in the treatment of depression. Most studies on mineral elements remain diverse and inconclusive. The potential toxicity and side effects of some elements warrant careful attention.

Illness and narrative identity: examining past and future life story chapters in individuals with bipolar disorder, diabetes mellitus or no chronic illness

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether narrative identity challenges are specific to Bipolar Disorder (BD) as a mental illness or a reflection of living with chronic illness. Nineteen individuals diagnosed with BD, 29 individuals diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) and 25 controls without chronic mental or somatic illness identified past and future life story chapters which were self-rated on emotional tone and self-event connections and content-coded for agency and communion themes. Individuals with BD self-rated their past chapters as more negative and less positive, and their chapters were lower on content-coded agency and communion themes compared to T1DM and controls. There were fewer group differences for future chapters, but BD was associated with lower self-rated positive emotional tone and self-stability connections as well as lower content-coded agency and communion themes. The results indicate that narrative identity is affected in individuals with BD above and beyond the consequences of living with chronic illness. This may reflect distinct effects of mental versus somatic illness on narrative identity.

Update on the assessment of resistance to antidepressant treatment: Rationale for the Antidepressant Treatment History Form: Short Form-2 (ATHF-SF2)

All definitions of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) require that patients have experienced insufficient benefit from one or more adequate antidepressant trials. Thus, identifying "failed, adequate trials" is key to the assessment of TRD. The Antidepressant Treatment History Form (ATHF) was one of the first and most widely used instruments that provided objective criteria in making these assessments. The original ATHF was updated in 2018 to the ATHF-SF, changing to a checklist format for scoring, and including specific pharmacotherapy, brain stimulation, and psychotherapy interventions as potentially adequate antidepressant treatments. The ATHF-SF2, presented here, is based on the consensus of the ATHF workgroup about the novel interventions introduced since the last revision and which should/should not be considered effective treatments for major depressive episodes. This document describes the rationale for these choices and, for each intervention, the minimal criteria for determining the adequacy of treatment administration. The Supplementary Material that accompanies this article provide the Scoring Checklist, Data Collection Forms (current episode and composite of previous episodes), and Instruction Manual for the ATHF-SF2.

N-(4-Bromo-2,5-Dimethoxyphenethyl)-6-(4-Phenylbutoxy)Hexan-1-Amine (XOB): A Novel Phenylalkylamine Antagonist of Serotonin 2A Receptors and Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels

Bipolar disorder impacts millions of patients in the United States but the mechanistic understanding of its pathophysiology and therapeutics is incomplete. Atypical antipsychotic serotonin2A (5-HT2A) receptor antagonists, such as quetiapine and olanzapine, and mood-stabilizing voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) blockers, such as lamotrigine, carbamazepine, and valproate, show therapeutic synergy and are often prescribed in combination for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Combination therapy is a complex task for clinicians and patients, often resulting in unexpected difficulties with dosing, drug tolerances, and decreased patient compliance. Thus, an unmet need for bipolar disorder treatment is to develop a therapeutic agent that targets both 5-HT2A receptors and VGSCs. Toward this goal, we developed a novel small molecule that simultaneously antagonizes 5-HT2A receptors and blocks sodium current. The new compound, N-(4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethyl)-6-(4-phenylbutoxy)hexan-1-amine (XOB) antagonizes 5-HT-stimulated, Gq-mediated, calcium flux at 5-HT2A receptors at low micromolar concentrations while displaying negligible affinity and activity at 5-HT1A, 5-HT2B, and 5-HT2C receptors. At similar concentrations, XOB administration inhibits sodium current in heterologous cells and results in reduced action potential (AP) firing and VGSC-related AP properties in mouse prefrontal cortex layer V pyramidal neurons. Thus, XOB represents a new, proof-of-principle tool that can be used for future preclinical investigations and therapeutic development. This polypharmacology approach of developing a single molecule to act upon two targets, which are currently independently targeted by combination therapies, may lead to safer alternatives for the treatment of psychiatric disorders that are increasingly being found to benefit from the simultaneous targeting of multiple receptors. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The authors synthesized a novel small molecule (XOB) that simultaneously antagonizes two key therapeutic targets of bipolar disorder, 5-HT2A receptors and voltage-gated sodium channels, in heterologous cells, and inhibits the intrinsic excitability of mouse prefrontal cortex layer V pyramidal neurons in brain slices. XOB represents a valuable new proof-of-principle tool for future preclinical investigations and provides a novel molecular approach to the pharmacological treatment of complex neuropsychiatric disease, which often requires a combination of therapeutics for sufficient patient benefit.

Effect of γ-tACS on prefrontal hemodynamics in bipolar disorder: A functional near-infrared study

OBJECTIVES

Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) is a potential therapeutic psychiatric tool that has been shown to modulate clinical symptoms and brain function by inducing brain oscillations. However, direct evidence on the effects of gamma-tACS (γ-tACS) on Bipolar I Disorder (BD-I) is limited. In the present study we used functional near-infrared spectroscopy to explore prefrontal hemodynamic changes in BD-I patients receiving combined γ-tACS intervention in addition to pharmacological treatment.

METHODS

Only 39 male patients with BD-I in the acute manic phase were included, and they were randomly divided into an intervention group (n = 18) and a control group (n = 21). The intervention group received γ-tACS treatment on a weekday for a total of 10 sessions in the right prefrontal cortex and left prefrontal cortex. All participants were pretested (baseline) and posttested (2 weeks after) with questionnaires to assess clinical symptoms and cognitive abilities, and with functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to assess spontaneous cortical hemodynamic activities.

RESULTS

Compared to the control group, the intervention group had greater increases in Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores, and greater decreases in Bech-Rafaelsen Mania Rating Scale (BRMS) scores. In the intervention group, functional connectivity (FC) was significantly greater in the left hemisphere. γ-tACS treatment resulted in a left hemispheric lateralization effect of resting state FC in BD-I patients, increasing the hemodynamic activity of the patient's left prefrontal cortex.

CONCLUSIONS

γ-tACS can improve cognitive impairment and mood symptoms with BD-I patients in an acute manic episode by enhancing FC in the patients' left prefrontal cortex.

Lithium Exposure and Risk of Major Neurocognitive Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Published studies on the association between lithium use and the decreased risk of major neurocognitive disorders (MNCDs) have shown disparities in their conclusions. We aimed to provide updated evidence of this association.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library from inception until August 31, 2023. All the observational studies evaluating the association between lithium use and MNCD risk were eligible for inclusion. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% prediction intervals were computed using random-effects models.

RESULTS

Eight studies with 377,060 subjects were included in the analysis. In the general population on the association between lithium use versus nonuse and dementia, the OR was 0.94 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.77-1.24). Further analysis also demonstrated that lithium use was not associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease (OR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.31-1.65). When the analysis was restricted to individuals with bipolar disorder to reduce the confounding by clinical indication, lithium exposure was also not associated with a decreased risk of MNCD (OR = 0.9, 95% CI = 0.71-1.15).

CONCLUSION

The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis do not support a significant association between lithium use and the risk of MNCD.

BI-REAL: A 12-session DBT skills group intervention adapted for bipolar disorder - A feasibility randomised pilot trial

International guidelines endorse psychological treatment for Bipolar Disorder (BD); however, the absence of a recognised gold-standard intervention requires further research. A Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills group intervention with 12 sessions was developed. This pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT) aims to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and outcomes variance of Bi-REAL - Respond Effectively, Assertively, and Live mindfully, tailored for individuals with BD, in preparation for a future RCT.

METHODS

52 participants (female = 62.7 %; mean age = 43.2 ± 11.1) with BD were randomised by blocks to either the experimental group (EG; n = 26; Bi-REAL + Treatment as Usual, TAU) receiving 12 weekly 90-minutes sessions, or the control group (CG; n = 26, TAU). Feasibility and acceptability were assessed with a multimethod approach (qualitative interviews, semi-structured clinical interviews and a battery of self-report questionnaires - candidate main outcomes Bipolar Recovery Questionnaire (BRQ) and brief Quality of Life for Bipolar Disorder (QoL.BD)). All participants were evaluated at baseline (T0), post-intervention (T1) and 3-month follow-up (T2).

RESULTS

Acceptability was supported by participants' positive feedback and ratings of the sessions and programme overall, as well as the treatment attendance (86.25 % of sessions attended). The trial overall retention rate was 74.5 %, with CG having a higher dropout rate across the 3-timepoints (42.31 %). A significant Time × Group interaction effect was found for BRQ and QoL.BD favouring the intervention group (p < .05).

LIMITATIONS

The assessors were not blind at T1 (only at T2). Recruitment plan was impacted due to COVID-19 restrictions and replication is questionable. High attrition rates in the CG.

CONCLUSIONS

The acceptability of Bi-REAL was sustained, and subsequent feasibility testing will be necessary to establish whether the retention rates of the overall trial improve and if feasibility is confirmed, before progressing to a definitive trial.

Is intravenous valproate more efficacious than oral valproate for inpatients with bipolar I disorder with a manic or depressive episode and concomitant symptoms of opposite polarity?

INTRO

Valproic acid (VPA) is a commonly prescribed mood stabilizer, available in both oral (OS) and intravenous (IV) formulations. However, few studies have compared their safety and efficacy. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of and IV-VPA in patients with Bipolar Disorder.

METHODS

Fifty patients with Bipolar Disorder experiencing a manic or depressive episode, with concomitant symptoms of opposite polarity, admitted to our inpatient unit and treated with IV-VPA were included in a retrospective, single-centre, non-randomized, open-label, parallel-group comparative study. Fifty patients experiencing a manic or depressive episode, with concomitant symptoms of opposite polarity, treated with oral-VPA and selected among those who were admitted to the inpatient unit prior to the introduction of IV-VPA in our clinical practice, were included as the control group (matched based on age, gender and clinical scales score at baseline). The Clinical Global Impression (CGI), Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) scores were recorded at baseline, after 3 days of treatment and discharge from the inpatient unit. Patients were asked to respond on the basis of the symptoms present on the day the scale was administered. Response rate and the presence of adverse effects were also recorded.

RESULTS

Both patients treated with oral and IV-VPA demonstrated significant improvements in all psychometric scales (p < 0.001). However, the IV group exhibited superior efficacy, with significantly lower scores on the CGI, YMRS, MADRS and HAM-A scales on Day 3 and at discharge from the inpatient unit. The IV-VPA treatment showed higher response rates on all psychometric scales, and no adverse effects were reported in either group.

CONCLUSION

This retrospective study supports the use of IV-VPA as a more efficacious treatment option for patients with Bipolar Disorder, particularly in acute settings where rapid symptom improvement is crucial. Both oral and IV-VPA were found to be safe and well-tolerated.

Effect of antipsychotics and mood stabilisers on metabolism in bipolar disorder: a network meta-analysis of randomised-controlled trials

Background

Antipsychotics and mood stabilisers are gathering attention for the disturbance of metabolism. This network meta-analysis aims to evaluate and rank the metabolic effects of the commonly used antipsychotics and mood stabilisers in treating bipolar disorder (BD).

Methods

Registries including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Ovid, and Google Scholar were searched before February 15th, 2024, for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) applying antipsychotics or mood stabilisers for BD treatment. The observed outcomes were twelve metabolic indicators. The data were extracted by two reviewers independently, and confirmed by another four reviewers and a corresponding author. The above six reviewers all participated in data analyses. Data extraction was based on PRISMA guidelines, and quality assessment was conducted according to the Cochrane Handbook. Use a random effects model for data pooling. The PROSPERO registration number is CRD42023466669.

Findings

Together, 5421 records were identified, and 41 publications with 11,678 complete-trial participants were confirmed eligible. After eliminating possible sensitivity, risperidone ranked 1st in elevating fasting serum glucose (SUCRA = 90.7%) and serum insulin (SUCRA = 96.6%). Lurasidone was most likely to elevate HbA1c (SUCRA = 82.1%). Olanzapine ranked 1st in elevating serum TC (SUCRA = 93.3%), TG (SUCRA = 89.6%), and LDL (SUCRA = 94.7%). Lamotrigine ranked 1st in reducing HDL (SUCRA = 82.6%). Amisulpride ranked 1st in elevating body weight (SUCRA = 100.0%). For subgroup analyses, quetiapine is more likely to affect indicators of glucose metabolism among male adult patients with bipolar mania, while long-term lurasidone tended to affect glucose metabolism among female patients with bipolar depression. Among patients under 18, divalproex tended to affect glucose metabolism, with lithium affecting lipid metabolism. In addition, most observed antipsychotics performed higher response and remission rates than placebo, and displayed a similar dropout rate with placebo, while no between-group significance of rate was observed among mood stabilisers.

Interpretation

Our findings suggest that overall, antipsychotics are effective in treating BD, while they are also more likely to disturb metabolism than mood stabilisers. Attention should be paid to individual applicability in clinical practice. The results put forward evidence-based information and clinical inspiration for drug compatibility and further research of the BD mechanism.

Funding

The National Key Research and Development Program of China (2023YFC2506200), and the Research Project of Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory (No. JNL-2023001B).

The impact of CYP3A5*3 on oral quetiapine: A population pharmacokinetic model in Chinese bipolar disorder patients

BACKGROUND

There is great interindividual difference in the plasma concentration of quetiapine, and optimizing quetiapine therapy to achieve a balance between efficacy and safety is still a challenge. In our study, a population pharmacokinetic (PPK) model considering genetic information was developed with the expectation of comprehensively explaining this observation in Chinese patients with bipolar disorder.

METHODS

Patients who were dispensed quetiapine and underwent the therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) were included. The genotypes of CYP3A5*3, CYP2D6*10, and ABCB1 C3435T/G2677T were analyzed. Finally, a multivariable linear regression model was applied to describe the PPK of quetiapine considering the covariates weight, height and genotype information.

RESULTS

A total of 175 TDM points from 107 patients were adopted for PPK model development. Resultantly, the CL/F of quetiapine in CYP3A5 expressers was 81.1 CL/h, whereas it was 43.6 CL/h in CYP3A5 nonexpressers. The interindividual variability in CL/F was 47.7 %. However, neither the ABCB1 nor CYP2D6 genotype was significantly associated with the predictor of quetiapine clearance in our study.

LIMITATIONS

Only trough concentrations were collected, and the span between different points was relatively wide, impeding the application of the typical nonlinear compartment model for PPK analysis. In addition, this was a single-center study which limited the sample of wild-type CYP3A5 carriers.

CONCLUSIONS

The currently established PPK model of quetiapine considering the contribution of the CYP3A5 genotype could efficiently predict the population and individual pharmacokinetic parameters of Chinese bipolar disorder patients, which could better guide the personalized therapy with quetiapine, thus to achieve the best clinical response.

Longitudinal studies of bipolar patients and their families: translating findings to advance individualized risk prediction, treatment and research

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder is a broad diagnostic construct associated with significant phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity challenging progress in clinical practice and discovery research. Prospective studies of well-characterized patients and their family members have identified lithium responsive (LiR) and lithium non-responsive (LiNR) subtypes that hold promise for advancement.

METHOD

In this narrative review, relevant observations from published longitudinal studies of well-characterized bipolar patients and their families spanning six decades are highlighted. DSM diagnoses based on SADS-L interviews were decided in blind consensus reviews by expert clinicians. Genetic, neurobiological, and psychosocial factors were investigated in subsets of well-characterized probands and adult relatives. Systematic maintenance trials of lithium, antipsychotics, and lamotrigine were carried out. Clinical profiles that included detailed histories of the clinical course, symptom sets and disorders segregating in families were documented. Offspring of LiR and LiNR families were repeatedly assessed up to 20 years using KSADS-PL format interviews and DSM diagnoses and sub-threshold symptoms were decided by expert clinicians in blind consensus reviews using all available clinical and research data.

RESULTS

A characteristic clinical profile differentiated bipolar patients who responded to lithium stabilization from those who did not. The LiR subtype was characterized by a recurrent fully remitting course predominated by depressive episodes and a positive family history of episodic remitting mood disorders, and not schizophrenia. Response to lithium clustered in families and the characteristic clinical profile predicted lithium response, with the episodic remitting course being a strong correlate. There is accumulating evidence that genetic and neurobiological markers differ between LiR and LiNR subtypes. Further, offspring of bipolar parents subdivided by lithium response differed in developmental history, clinical antecedents and early course of mood disorders. Moreover, the nature of the emergent course bred true from parent to offspring, independent of the nature of emergent psychopathology.

CONCLUSIONS

Bipolar disorders are heterogeneous and response to long-term lithium is associated with a familial subtype with characteristic course, treatment response, family history and likely pathogenesis. Incorporating distinctive clinical profiles that index valid bipolar subtypes into routine practice and research will improve patient outcomes and advance the development and translation of novel treatment targets to improve prevention and early intervention.

Depression Treatment in Pregnancy: Is It Safe, or Is It Not?

Prenatal depression carries substantial risks for maternal and fetal health and increases susceptibility to postpartum depression. Untreated depression in pregnancy is correlated with adverse outcomes such as an increased risk of suicidal ideation, miscarriage and neonatal growth problems. Notwithstanding concerns about the use of antidepressants, the available treatment options emphasize the importance of specialized medical supervision during gestation. The purpose of this paper is to conduct a brief literature review on the main antidepressant drugs and their effects on pregnancy, assessing their risks and benefits. The analysis of the literature shows that it is essential that pregnancy be followed by specialized doctors and multidisciplinary teams (obstetricians, psychiatrists and psychologists) who attend to the woman's needs. Depression can now be treated safely during pregnancy by choosing drugs that have no teratogenic effects and fewer side effects for both mother and child. Comprehensive strategies involving increased awareness, early diagnosis, clear guidelines and effective treatment are essential to mitigate the impact of perinatal depression.

Efficacy of Theta Burst Stimulation in Bipolar Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Purpose

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has emerged as a promising alternative therapeutic modality for bipolar depression. Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) a novel variant of rTMS is currently evolving as an effective and safe therapeutic tool in the management of bipolar depression, although it is still in the initial phase. In the present systematic review and meta-analysis, data from various studies investigating the effectiveness and tolerability of TBS in individuals with bipolar depression were synthesized.

Data collection and analyses

Eight studies assessing the efficacy of TBS as a treatment for bipolar depression were included after a systematic search. The quality of the included studies was assessed using standard methods. Synthesized data included three uncontrolled clinical trials (non-randomized controlled trials [RCTs]; n = 48) and five RCTs (n = 201). While four studies used intermittent TBS, two studies used continuous TBS and bilateral TBS, each. Data from the five RCTs meta-analyzed using the random effects model showed the pooled odds ratio and effect size for response in the active group compared to the sham group were 1.01 (95%CI: 0.56, 1.83) and 1.64 (95%CI: -0.46, 3.74), respectively. Although both models showed no/minimal heterogeneity or publication bias, they were not statistically significant. A supplementary trial sequential analysis confirmed the need for more studies and suggested that the total sample required for drawing meaningful inferences was 918 samples.

Conclusion

The available evidence suggests that more studies are required to draw conclusive inferences for the efficacy of TBS in the therapeutic management of bipolar depression.

What does it mean to age well with bipolar disorder? A qualitative study using photo elicitation

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study is to explore what ageing well means to older adults with bipolar disorder.

METHODS

Older adults with bipolar disorder took photographs of aspects of their lives that they felt represented ageing well. They then completed audio-recorded photo elicitation interviews to explore what it meant to age well with bipolar disorder in detail. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Seventeen participants met the criteria for bipolar disorder I or II. The analysis resulted in four key themes to ageing well with bipolar disorder: (1) Lifelong learning - referring to how participants accumulated a wealth of knowledge about bipolar disorder and used this to maintain stability in later life; (2) Finding where you belong - relating to how participants prioritised finding new communities, utilised family support and refined their support networks over time to age well; (3) Recognising your value and worth - which involved participants using their strengths and experiences to support others; and (4) Continuity of support - older adults with bipolar disorder highlighted the benefits of continuous support that allowed them to be actively involved in their treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants ageing with bipolar disorder identified unique challenges indicating that services require adaptation to meet their needs and support them to age well. Findings suggested that services should provide continuous care that allows this group to actively engage with their treatment, build upon their strengths, and develop meaningful connections with professionals and peers. This approach may enhance support for older adults with bipolar disorder and reduce the inequalities they experience.

International Trends in Lithium Use for Pharmacotherapy and Clinical Correlates in Bipolar Disorder: A Scoping Review

Lithium remains an effective option in the treatment of bipolar disorder (BD). Thus, we aim to characterize the pharmaco-epidemiological patterns of lithium use internationally over time and elucidate clinical correlates associated with BD using a scoping review, which was conducted using the methodological framework by Arksey and O'Malley (2005). We searched several databases for studies that examined the prescriptions for lithium and clinical associations in BD from inception until December 2023. This review included 55 articles from 1967 to 2023, which collected data from North America (n = 24, 43.6%), Europe (n = 20, 36.4%), and Asia (n = 11, 20.0%). The overall prescription rates ranged from 3.3% to 84% (33.4% before and 30.6% after the median year cutoffs). Over time, there was a decline in lithium use in North America (27.7% before 2010 to 17.1% after 2010) and Europe (36.7% before 2003 to 35.7% after 2003), and a mild increase in Asia (25.0% before 2003 to 26.2% after 2003). Lithium use was associated with specific demographic (e.g., age, male gender) and clinical factors (e.g., lower suicide risk). Overall, we found a trend of declining lithium use internationally, particularly in the West. Specific clinical correlates can support clinical decision-making for continued lithium use.

Management of Lithium Dosing Around Delivery: An Observational Study

Objectives

Recommendations on lithium dosing around delivery vary, with several guidelines suggesting that lithium should be discontinued prior to delivery. We aimed to evaluate the validity of these recommendations by investigating 1) maternal lithium blood level changes following delivery, and 2) the association between neonatal lithium blood levels at delivery and neonatal outcomes.

Methods

In this retrospective observational cohort study, we included women with at least one lithium blood level measurement during the final week of pregnancy and the first postpartum week. For aim 2, we included a subcohort of women with neonates for whom neonatal lithium blood levels (obtained from the umbilical cord or a neonatal vein puncture within 24 hours of delivery) were available.

Results

There were a total of 233 maternal lithium blood level measurements; 55 (23.6%) in the week before delivery and 178 (76.4%) in the week after. There was no association between time and lithium blood level/dose ratio (Pearson correlation coefficient -0.03, P = .63). Additionally, we included a total of 29 neonates for whom a lithium measurement was performed within 24 hours postpartum. Maternal and neonatal lithium blood levels were strongly correlated. We observed no associations between neonatal lithium blood levels at delivery and neonatal outcomes.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, we do not recommend lowering the dosage or discontinuation of lithium prior to delivery. Stable dosing can prevent subtherapeutic lithium serum levels, which is especially important in the postpartum period when relapse risks are highest.Appeared originally in Bipolar Disord 2021; 23:49-54.

A trial of prolonged exposure therapy for outpatients with comorbid bipolar disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) commonly co-occur, but no treatment guidelines exist for this population. Prolonged exposure (PE) is a well-established and efficacious treatment for PTSD, untested in patients with comorbid bipolar disorder. The current study evaluates the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of PE for patients with bipolar disorder and PTSD.

METHODS

Participants were enrolled in PE and completed assessments of PTSD symptoms, suicidality, state and trait anxiety, depression, and mania at baseline, Sessions 5 and 10, and at 6-months post-treatment.

RESULTS

32 patients enrolled in this study, with 75 % (24/32) completing all ten PE sessions and 50 % completing 6-month follow-up assessments. PTSD symptoms decreased from baseline to Session 10 and continued to decrease throughout the follow-up period. Suicidality, measured by implicit associations between self and death, showed a similar pattern of decrease over treatment and follow-up periods. Suicidal thinking and depressive symptoms decreased from baseline through Session 10 and rebounded slightly, remaining below baseline at 6-months follow-up. State and trait anxiety increased initially through Session 5 but then decreased and remained stable. Mania scores remained stable at all assessment periods.

LIMITATIONS

The study is limited by a small sample size and absence of a control condition. Criterion A trauma was not required, limiting generalizability, and there was significant attrition at follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that PE is a feasible and preliminarily efficacious treatment for patients with bipolar disorder and comorbid PTSD, and support the conduct of a fully powered efficacy of PE for this comorbidity.

Facts and myths about the use of lithium for bipolar disorder in routine clinical practice: an expert consensus paper

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder is one of the most burdensome severe mental disorders, characterized by high levels of personal and social disability. Patients often need an integrated pharmacological and non-pharmacological approach. Lithium is one of the most effective treatments available not only in psychiatry, but in the whole medicine, and its clinical efficacy is superior to that of other mood stabilizers. However, a declining trend on lithium prescriptions has been observed worldwide in the last 20 years, supporting the notion that lithium is a 'forgotten drug' and highlighting that the majority of patients with bipolar disorder are missing out the best available pharmacological option. Based on such premises, a narrative review has been carried out on the most common "misconceptions" and "stereotypes" associated with lithium treatment; we also provide a list of "good reasons" for using lithium in ordinary clinical practice to overcome those false myths.

MAIN TEXT

A narrative search of the available literature has been performed entering the following keywords: "bipolar disorder", "lithium", "myth", "mythology", "pharmacological treatment", and "misunderstanding". The most common false myths have been critically revised and the following statements have been proposed: (1) Lithium should represent the first choice for the treatment of patients with bipolar disorder; (2) lithium treatment is effective in different patients' groups suffering from bipolar disorder; (3) Drug-drug interaction risk can be easily managed during lithium treatment; (4) The optimal management of lithium treatment includes periodical laboratory tests; (5) Slow-release lithium formulation has advantages compared to immediate release formulation; (6) Lithium treatment has antisuicidal properties; (7) Lithium can be carefully managed during pregnancy.

CONCLUSIONS

In recent years, a discrepancy between evidence-based recommendations and clinical practice in using lithium treatment for patients with bipolar disorder has been highlighted. It is time to disseminate clear and unbiased information on the clinical efficacy, effectiveness, tolerability and easiness to use of lithium treatment in patients with bipolar disorder. It is necessary to reinvigorate the clinical and academic discussion about the efficacy of lithium, to counteract the decreasing prescription trend of one of the most effective drugs available in the whole medicine.

Exploring aspects of self-reported emotional mental imagery in patients with bipolar disorder

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

CBT for patients with bipolar disorder has modest effects. Across disorders, mental imagery has been used to update CBT to increase effectiveness. In order to enhance CBT for bipolar disorder with imagery techniques, research is needed into emotional imagery quality and, related appraisals of imagery and their relationships with mood instability and subsequent behaviour in bipolar disorder.

METHODS

Patients with bipolar disorder (n = 106), unipolar depression (n = 51), creative imagery prone participants (n = 53) and participants without a history of a mood disorder (n = 135) completed the Dutch Imagery Survey (DImS), an online imagery survey, adapted from the Imagery Interview, assessing self-reported emotional imagery aspects. Imagery quality, appraisals and their self-perceived effects on emotion and behaviour were compared between groups. As unexpected differences within the bipolar group appeared, these were additionally explored.

RESULTS

Imagery appraisals but not imagery quality discriminated between the patient groups and non-patient groups Imagery was perceived as an emotional amplifier in all groups, but this was specifically apparent in bipolar manic and bipolar depressed groups. Only in the bipolar group imagery was experienced to amplify behavioural tendencies.

LIMITATIONS

Results need to be replicated using a larger sample of patients with BD who are currently manic or depressed.

CONCLUSIONS

Not only quality of imagery, but especially appraisals associated with imagery are differentiating between imagery prone people with and without mood disorder. Imagery amplifies emotion in all groups, but only in those patients with bipolar disorder currently manic or depressed did this influence behaviour.

Use of a gene expression signature to identify trimetazidine for repurposing to treat bipolar depression

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to repurpose a drug for the treatment of bipolar depression.

METHODS

A gene expression signature representing the overall transcriptomic effects of a cocktail of drugs widely prescribed to treat bipolar disorder was generated using human neuronal-like (NT2-N) cells. A compound library of 960 approved, off-patent drugs were then screened to identify those drugs that affect transcription most similar to the effects of the bipolar depression drug cocktail. For mechanistic studies, peripheral blood mononuclear cells were obtained from a healthy subject and reprogrammed into induced pluripotent stem cells, which were then differentiated into co-cultured neurons and astrocytes. Efficacy studies were conducted in two animal models of depressive-like behaviours (Flinders Sensitive Line rats and social isolation with chronic restraint stress rats).

RESULTS

The screen identified trimetazidine as a potential drug for repurposing. Trimetazidine alters metabolic processes to increase ATP production, which is thought to be deficient in bipolar depression. We showed that trimetazidine increased mitochondrial respiration in cultured human neuronal-like cells. Transcriptomic analysis in induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neuron/astrocyte co-cultures suggested additional mechanisms of action via the focal adhesion and MAPK signalling pathways. In two different rodent models of depressive-like behaviours, trimetazidine exhibited antidepressant-like activity with reduced anhedonia and reduced immobility in the forced swim test.

CONCLUSION

Collectively our data support the repurposing of trimetazidine for the treatment of bipolar depression.

Real-world use of pharmacological treatments for incident bipolar disorder: A Finnish nationwide cohort study

BACKGROUND

Pharmacotherapy remains crucial for treating bipolar disorder (BD), but knowledge on the treatments actually used by newly diagnosed patients in real-world settings is sparse.

METHODS

Individuals newly diagnosed with BD during 1996-2018, aged 15-65 years, were identified from national Finnish registers. The patients' use of different drug classes (mood stabilizers, antipsychotics and antidepressants) or combinations of these drug classes were followed from initial pharmacotherapy (first line) after BD diagnosis until the fifth line of treatment or until the two-year follow-up time ended. Clinical and sociodemographic factors associated with antidepressants-only as the first treatment line were assessed with logistic regression.

RESULTS

82.6 % of all patients used BD medication during the follow-up. 33.9 % had antidepressants-only as the first, 22.9 % as the second and 19.7 % as the third treatment line. Use of combinations of mood stabilizers, antipsychotics and antidepressants increased by successive treatment lines. Factors associated with antidepressants-only as the first treatment line included older age (>45 years aOR 2.20, 95% CI: 2.01-2.40, 25-45 years: 1.55, 1.42-1.68, compared with those aged <25), diabetes (1.35, 1.17-1.55) and female sex (1.29, 1.21-1.37). BD diagnosis registered in 2016-2018 (0.48, 0.42-0.55) and substance abuse (0.77, 0.71-0.83) were associated with decreased odds.

LIMITATIONS

Due to the register-based nature of this study, not all potentially important clinical factors influencing medication use could be controlled for.

CONCLUSIONS

A large proportion of patients with bipolar disorder are not treated according to treatment guidelines, as use of antidepressants alone is common. Reasons for not following evidence-based recommendations need to be further researched.

Beyond the Asylum Walls: Tracing the Tapestry of Mental Health Interventions Across Eras and Cultures

This article offers an extensive review of the changing field of mental health therapies, charting a transformational path from traditional methods to modern breakthroughs and speculating on potential future developments. The story develops by investigating historical viewpoints while reflecting on the present and highlighting the lessons learned and their impact on contemporary practices. We have advanced from the stigmatized constraints of asylums to a paradigm that puts human rights, dignity, and individualized, culturally sensitive treatment first. Modern methods are much more varied and evidence-based, from cutting-edge technical advancements to evidence-based psychotherapies. The ethical considerations arising from the delicate balance of pharmacological therapies underline the responsibility of administering drugs that significantly affect mental health. Cultural factors become a pillar, highlighting how crucial cultural sensitivity is to promoting tolerance. By acknowledging how many facets of the human experience are interrelated, holistic methods help close the gap between the mind and body. Integrative medicine and alternative therapies represent a shift away from reductionist approaches and toward a holistic viewpoint. The delivery of mental health treatment is being reimagined by technological advancements, with virtual and digital environments opening up new access and support channels. These developments cut beyond regional boundaries, reinventing conventional therapy dynamics and paving the way for individualized therapies. Cultural concerns highlight the significance of cultural competency in navigating the complex mental health treatment system and adapting interventions to fit the particular requirements of various cultural contexts. With telepsychiatry, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence among the new technologies that promise to further revolutionize mental health therapies, the essay looks to the future. This review concludes by imagining a day when mental health is prioritized, therapies are available, and the diversity of human experience is valued. The path to a society that values, nurtures, and celebrates mental health continues.

CaMKK2 as an emerging treatment target for bipolar disorder

Current pharmacological treatments for bipolar disorder are inadequate and based on serendipitously discovered drugs often with limited efficacy, burdensome side-effects, and unclear mechanisms of action. Advances in drug development for the treatment of bipolar disorder remain incremental and have come largely from repurposing drugs used for other psychiatric conditions, a strategy that has failed to find truly revolutionary therapies, as it does not target the mood instability that characterises the condition. The lack of therapeutic innovation in the bipolar disorder field is largely due to a poor understanding of the underlying disease mechanisms and the consequent absence of validated drug targets. A compelling new treatment target is the Ca2+-calmodulin dependent protein kinase kinase-2 (CaMKK2) enzyme. CaMKK2 is highly enriched in brain neurons and regulates energy metabolism and neuronal processes that underpin higher order functions such as long-term memory, mood, and other affective functions. Loss-of-function polymorphisms and a rare missense mutation in human CAMKK2 are associated with bipolar disorder, and genetic deletion of Camkk2 in mice causes bipolar-like behaviours similar to those in patients. Furthermore, these behaviours are ameliorated by lithium, which increases CaMKK2 activity. In this review, we discuss multiple convergent lines of evidence that support targeting of CaMKK2 as a new treatment strategy for bipolar disorder.

Examining Factors Associated With Medication Adherence in Youth With Bipolar Disorder

Objective

To assess medication adherence and factors associated with poor adherence in youth with bipolar disorder (BD) followed from adolescence through young adulthood.

Method

Participants with BD recruited through the Course and Outcome of Bipolar Youth (COBY) study were included in this study if they were prescribed psychotropic medications and had at least 3 follow-up assessments of medication adherence (N= 179, ages 12-36). Medication adherence had been evaluated for a median of 8 years using a questionnaire derived from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study. For the longitudinal evaluation, adherence was measured as the percentage of follow-up assessments in which the participants did not endorse any of the nonadherence items included in the questionnaire. Concurrent and future predictors of poor adherence were assessed using both univariate and multivariate longitudinal analyses.

Results

Among the participants, 51% reported poor adherence in more than 50% of their follow-up assessments. Younger age, family conflicts, polypharmacy, lower functioning, greater severity of mood symptoms, and comorbid disorders were associated with poor adherence in the univariate analyses. In the multivariate analyses, comorbid ADHD was the single most influential factor associated with concurrent and future poor adherence in all age groups. Participants' most reported reasons for poor adherence were forgetfulness (56%), negative attitudes toward medication treatment (10.5%), and disturbed daily routine (7%).

Conclusions

Poor medication adherence is a significant problem in youth with BD with the most influential factor being the presence of comorbid ADHD. Thus, it is important to identify and appropriately treat comorbid ADHD to improve medication adherence and patients' prognosis. Providers should also recommend tools to enhance consistent medication intake and address patients' concerns and negative beliefs about their illness and treatment.

New "drugs and targets" in the GWAS era of bipolar disorder

OBJECTIVE

Due to the phenotypic heterogeneity and etiological complexity of bipolar disorder (BD), many patients do not respond well to the current medications, and developing novel effective treatment is necessary. Whether any BD genome-wide association study (GWAS) risk genes were targets of existing drugs or novel drugs that can be repurposed in the clinical treatment of BD is a hot topic in the GWAS era of BD.

METHODS

A list of 425 protein-coding BD risk genes was distilled through the BD GWAS, and 4479 protein-coding druggable targets were retrieved from the druggable genome. The overlapped genes/targets were subjected to further analyses in DrugBank, Pharos, and DGIdb datasets in terms of their FDA status, mechanism of action and primary indication, to identify their potential for repurposing.

RESULTS

We identified 58 BD GWAS risk genes grouped as the druggable targets, and several genes were given higher priority. These BD risk genes were targets of antipsychotics, antidepressants, antiepileptics, calcium channel antagonists, as well as anxiolytics and analgesics, either existing clinically-approved drugs for BD or the drugs than can be repurposed for treatment of BD in the future. Those genes were also likely relevant to BD pathophysiology, as many of them encode ion channel, ion transporter or neurotransmitter receptor, or the mice manipulating those genes are likely to mimic the phenotypes manifest in BD patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identifies several targets that may facilitate the discovery of novel treatments in BD, and implies the value of conducting GWAS into clinical translation.

Transcriptional and functional effects of lithium in bipolar disorder iPSC-derived cortical spheroids

Lithium (Li) is recommended for long-term treatment of bipolar disorder (BD). However, its mechanism of action is still poorly understood. Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived brain organoids have emerged as a powerful tool for modeling BD-related disease mechanisms. We studied the effects of 1 mM Li treatment for 1 month in iPSC-derived human cortical spheroids (hCS) from 10 healthy controls (CTRL) and 11 BD patients (6 Li-responders, Li-R, and 5 Li non-treated, Li-N). At day 180 of differentiation, BD hCS showed smaller size, reduced proportion of neurons, decreased neuronal excitability and reduced neural network activity compared to CTRL hCS. Li rescued excitability of BD hCS neurons by exerting an opposite effect in the two diagnostic groups, increasing excitability in BD hCS and decreasing it in CTRL hCS. We identified 132 Li-associated differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were overrepresented in sodium ion homeostasis and kidney-related pathways. Moreover, Li regulated secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased mitochondrial reserve capacity in BD hCS. Through long-term Li treatment of a human 3D brain model, this study partly elucidates the functional and transcriptional mechanisms underlying the clinical effects of Li, such as rescue of neuronal excitability and neuroprotection. Our results also underscore the substantial influence of treatment duration in Li studies. Lastly, this study illustrates the potential of patient iPSC-derived 3D brain models for precision medicine in psychiatry.

Experiences that matter in bipolar disorder: a qualitative study using the capability, comfort and calm framework

BACKGROUND

When assessing the value of an intervention in bipolar disorder, researchers and clinicians often focus on metrics that quantify improvements to core diagnostic symptoms (e.g., mania). Providers often overlook or misunderstand the impact of treatment on life quality and function. We wanted to better characterize the shared experiences and obstacles of bipolar disorder within the United States from the patient's perspective.

METHODS

We recruited 24 individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder and six caretakers supporting someone with the condition. Participants were involved in treatment or support services for bipolar disorder in central Texas. As part of this qualitative study, participants discussed their everyday successes and obstacles related to living with bipolar disorder during personalized, open-ended interviews. Audio files were transcribed, and Nvivo software processed an initial thematic analysis. We then categorized themes into bipolar disorder-related obstacles that limit the patient's capability (i.e., function), comfort (i.e., relief from suffering) and calm (i.e., life disruption) (Liu et al., FebClin Orthop 475:315-317, 2017; Teisberg et al., MayAcad Med 95:682-685, 2020). We then discuss themes and suggest practical strategies that might improve the value of care for patients and their families.

RESULTS

Issues regarding capability included the struggle to maintain identity, disruptions to meaningful employment, relationship loss and the unpredictable nature of bipolar disorder. Comfort related themes included the personal perception of diagnosis, social stigma and medication issues. Calm themes included managing dismissive doctors, finding the right psychotherapist and navigating financial burdens.

CONCLUSIONS

Qualitative data from patients with bipolar disorder helps identify gaps in care or practical limitations to treatment. When we listen to these individuals, it is clear that treatments must also address the unmet psychosocial impacts of the condition to improve patient care, capability and calm.

Optimizing multi-domain hematologic biomarkers and clinical features for the differential diagnosis of unipolar depression and bipolar depression

There is a lack of objective features for the differential diagnosis of unipolar and bipolar depression, especially those that are readily available in practical settings. We investigated whether clinical features of disease course, biomarkers from complete blood count, and blood biochemical markers could accurately classify unipolar and bipolar depression using machine learning methods. This retrospective study included 1160 eligible patients (918 with unipolar depression and 242 with bipolar depression). Patient data were randomly split into training (85%) and open test (15%) sets 1000 times, and the average performance was reported. XGBoost achieved the optimal open-test performance using selected biomarkers and clinical features-AUC 0.889, sensitivity 0.831, specificity 0.839, and accuracy 0.863. The importance of features for differential diagnosis was measured using SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) values. The most informative features include (1) clinical features of disease duration and age of onset, (2) biochemical markers of albumin, low density lipoprotein (LDL), and potassium, and (3) complete blood count-derived biomarkers of white blood cell count (WBC), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and monocytes (MONO). Overall, onset features and hematologic biomarkers appear to be reliable information that can be readily obtained in clinical settings to facilitate the differential diagnosis of unipolar and bipolar depression.

Mapping the psychoanalytic literature on bipolar disorder: a scoping review of journal articles

OBJECTIVE

To provide a review of journal articles discussing clinical cases or vignettes of psychoanalysis or psychoanalytic psychotherapy of patients affected by bipolar disorder.

METHODS

A thorough search of journal articles was performed in five databases to identify studies published from 1990-2021.

RESULTS

Twenty-four articles were included in this review, comprising a total of 29 case reports. The most common theoretical approach adopted by the authors was "object relations." Two main sets of clinical-theoretical considerations and recommendations emerge: the applicability of analytic treatment to patients with bipolar disorder - taking into account their analyzability and practical arrangements for conducting therapy - and theoretical speculations on the nature and development of the illness, as well as on the conceptualization of its different phases.

CONCLUSION

Our findings reveal that there is some psychoanalytic literature providing insight into the psychological dynamics and treatment of patients with bipolar disorder. Elaboration of this literature may help improve our understanding and provide more accurate and comprehensive descriptions of the intrapsychic and interpersonal dynamics of these patients, yielding potentially valuable information for clinical and research purposes, particularly with regard to reducing interpersonal conflict, and increasing insight and engagement with lifestyle changes and other behaviors likely to promote health and stability.

Suicide in bipolar disorder patients is associated with hippocampal microglia activation and reduction of lymphocytes-activation gene 3 (LAG3) microglial checkpoint expression

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder (BD) is associated with marked functional impairments along with increased rate of suicide. Although there is ample evidence for the involvement of inflammatory processes and microglia activation in the pathophysiology of BD, the mechanisms that regulate these cells in BD patients, and particularly the role of microglia checkpoints, is still unclear.

METHODS

Immunohistochemical analyses of hippocampal sections from post-mortem brains of 15 BD patients and 12 control subjects were used to assess microglia density, by staining the microglia-specific receptor P2RY12, and microglia activation, by staining the activation marker MHC II. Given recent findings on the involvement of LAG3, which interacts with MHC II and serves as a negative microglia checkpoint, in depression and electroconvulsive therapy, we assessed the levels of LAG3 expression and their correlations with microglia density and activation.

RESULTS

There were no overall differences between BD patients and controls, but BD patients who committed suicide (N = 9) displayed a significant elevation in the overall microglia density and the density of MHC II-labeled microglia (but not other MHC II-labeled cells), compared with no suicide BD patients (N = 6) and controls. Furthermore, the percent of microglia expressing LAG3 was significantly reduced only in suicidal BD patients, with significant negative correlations between microglial LAG3 expression levels and the density of microglia, in general, and activated microglia, in particular.

CONCLUSION

Suicidal BD patients exhibit microglia activation, which is possibly mediated by reduced LAG3 checkpoint expression, suggesting that anti-microglial therapeutics, including LAG3 modulators, may be beneficial for this subgroup of patients.

Polygenic Risk and Episode Polarity Among Individuals With Bipolar Disorder

OBJECTIVE

The authors investigated associations between polygenic liabilities for bipolar disorder, major depression, and schizophrenia and episode polarity among individuals with bipolar disorder.

METHODS

The sample consisted of 2,705 individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder at Danish psychiatric hospitals between January 1995 and March 2017. DNA was obtained from dried blood spots collected at birth as part of routine screening. Polygenic risk scores (PRSs) for bipolar disorder, major depression, and schizophrenia were generated using a meta-PRS method combining internally and externally trained components. Associations between PRS and polarity at first episode, polarity at any episode, and number of episodes with a given polarity were evaluated for each disorder-specific PRS using logistic and negative binominal regressions adjusted for the other two PRSs, age, sex, genotype platform, and five ancestral principal components.

RESULTS

PRS for bipolar disorder was positively associated with any manic episodes (odds ratio=1.23, 95% CI=1.09-1.38). PRS for depression was positively associated with any depressive (odds ratio=1.11, 95% CI=1.01-1.23) and mixed (odds ratio=1.15, 95% CI=1.03-1.28) episodes and negatively associated with any manic episodes (odds ratio=0.76, 95% CI=0.69-0.84). PRS for schizophrenia was positively associated with any manic episodes (odds ratio=1.13, 95% CI=1.01-1.27), but only when psychotic symptoms were present (odds ratio for psychotic mania: 1.27, 95% CI=1.05-1.54; odds ratio for nonpsychotic mania: 1.06, 95% CI=0.93-1.20). These patterns were similar for first-episode polarity and for the number of episodes within each pole.

CONCLUSIONS

PRSs for bipolar disorder, major depression, and schizophrenia are associated with episode polarity and psychotic symptoms in a congruent manner among individuals with bipolar disorder.

Relationship between serum concentration and clinical response of quetiapine in adolescents and adults with bipolar disorders in acute stage: a prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

It is found that there are great differences in the efficacy of quetiapine at the same dose in many patients with bipolar disorders. Therefore, therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is a valuable tool for guiding treatment with quetiapine. The aims of this study were to assess the relationship between serum concentration and clinical response of quetiapine in adolescents and adults with bipolar disorders in acute stage.

METHODS

The study design was prospective and observational. Within the naturalistic setting of a routine TDM service at the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine. Psychiatric symptoms were assessed using the HAMD (Hamilton Depression Scale), YRMS (Young manic rating scale) and CUDOS-M (Clinically Useful Depression Outcome Scale-Mixed Subscale). The decline of HAMD and YMRS scores was were used to assess clinical outcome of bipolar disorders respectively.

RESULTS

169 inpatients (23.7 % male, 76.3 % female) were enrolled in the study. We found that there was a strong correlation between quetiapine serum concentrations and clinical outcomes (r_s = 0.702, p < 0.001). While, quetiapine daily dose was not correlated with clinical outcome. We found that when the quetiapine serum level is >146.85 ng/ml in depression episodes patients could obtain a satisfactory treatment effect after 2 weeks of hospitalization.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a significant positive relationship between serum concentration and clinical outcome, and also determined the serum concentration of quetiapine for the treatment of bipolar depression.

Effects of a Smartphone-Based Self-management Intervention for Individuals With Bipolar Disorder on Relapse, Symptom Burden, and Quality of Life: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Bipolar disorder-specific psychotherapy combined with pharmacotherapy improves relapse risk, symptom burden, and quality of life, but psychotherapy is not easily accessible.

Objective

To determine if a smartphone-based self-management intervention (LiveWell) can assist individuals with bipolar disorder to maintain wellness.

Design, Setting, and Participants

An assessor-blind randomized clinical trial enrolled participants from March 20, 2017, to April 25, 2019, with 48-week follow-up ending on April 10, 2020. Participants were randomly assigned to usual care or usual care plus the smartphone intervention stratified by relapse risk based on initial clinical status (low risk: asymptomatic recovery; high risk: continued symptomatic, prodromal, recovering, symptomatic recovery). Participants with bipolar disorder I were recruited from clinics in the Chicago and Minneapolis-Saint Paul areas. Data were analyzed from June 19, 2020, to May 25, 2022.

Interventions

The smartphone-based self-management intervention consisted of an application (app), coach, and website. Over 16 weeks, participants had a coach visit followed by 6 phone calls, and they completed daily and weekly app check-ins. The app provided adaptive feedback and information for developing a personalized wellness plan, the coach provided support, and the website provided summary data and alerts.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was time to relapse. Secondary outcomes were percentage-time symptomatic, symptom severity, and quality of life.

Results

Of the 205 randomized participants (mean [SD] age, 42 [12] years; 125 female individuals [61%]; 5 Asian [2%], 21 Black [10%], 13 Hispanic or Latino [6%], 7 multiracial [3%], 170 White [83%], 2 unknown race [1%]), 81 (40%) were randomly assigned to usual care, and 124 (60%) were randomly assigned to usual care plus the smartphone intervention. This clinical trial did not detect a reduction in relapse risk for the smartphone intervention (hazard ratio [HR], 0.65; 95% CI, 0.39-1.09; log-rank P = .08). However, decreased relapse was observed for low-risk individuals (HR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.12-0.88; log-rank P = .02) but not high-risk individuals (HR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.47-1.57; log-rank P = .62). Reduced manic symptom severity was observed for low-risk individuals (mean [SE] difference, -1.4 [0.4]; P = .001) but not for high-risk individuals (mean [SE] difference, 0 [0.3]; P = .95). The smartphone-based self-management intervention decreased depressive symptom severity (mean [SE] difference, -0.80 [0.34]; P = .02) and improved relational quality of life (mean [SE] difference, 1.03 [0.45]; P = .02) but did not decrease percentage-time symptomatic (mean [SE] difference, -5.6 [4.3]; P = .20).

Conclusions and Relevance

This randomized clinical trial of a smartphone-based self-management intervention did not detect a significant improvement in the primary outcome of time to relapse. However, a significant decrease in relapse risk was observed for individuals in asymptomatic recovery. In addition, the intervention decreased depressive symptom severity and improved relational quality of life. These findings warrant further work to optimize the smartphone intervention and confirm that the intervention decreases relapse risk for individuals in asymptomatic recovery.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03088462.