Advances in the Treatment of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder is a mental disorder that causes the extreme change in the moods of an individual from being too excited (manic episode) to a depressed phase with the normal mood states in- between. Many pharmacological and psychotherapeutic techniques are already present for the treatment of the moods of the bipolar disorder, and also today, many researches are going on all around the world for exploring the new possibilities.

One of the earliest medications used for its treatment is Lithium, a central treatment of bipolar disorder. It is believed that it was discovered almost 50 years ago and since then, it has been using effectively to treat people having Bipolar Disorder. Some other pharmacological agents such as Lamictal, Abilify, Carbamazepine, Olanzapine, etc. are also in use to treat mood swings of Bipolar Disorder. But their Effect remains not for too long. Hence, there is a greater need for the scientists to look for improved therapies for the various episodes of Bipolar Disorder.

Recently, a new drug, called scopolamine was accidentally discovered for treating mood swings of bipolar disorder, when it was testing for its effects on memory and attention. The drug is found to have a great antidepressant response and the improvement persisted for weeks or even months.

Current advances in DNA research allow the access to the genetic secrets concerned with the bipolar disorder. Through this knowledge, several genetic variants linked to bipolar disorder has been highlighted which gives the possibility of complete treatment in the coming years.

With these advances in researches, soon the Bipolar Disorder will be cured completely.