Articles tagged with Bipolar Disorder
A study found that bright light therapy can ease symptoms of bipolar depression in some patients, with optimal response observed at midday. Six out of nine women treated achieved full recovery from depressive symptoms, highlighting the potential of light therapy as an augmentation strategy for improving treatment response.
Researchers found brain size differences between adolescents with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, as well as between boys and girls. Puberty may contribute to these changes, suggesting sex hormones influence brain development and potentially informing treatment approaches.
Research suggests that maintaining consistent sleep schedules and regular physical activity can help balance the circadian system and reduce symptoms of bipolar disorder. Studies found that patients who participated in interpersonal and social rhythm therapy experienced longer periods without new episodes of mania or depression.
Researchers found increased brain activity in children with bipolar disorder when encoding happy faces and irritability when angry faces, suggesting a neural basis for mania. The study also revealed reduced memory for emotional faces in children with bipolar disorder compared to typically developing peers.
A new study shows that tamoxifen, a breast cancer medication, dramatically reduces manic symptoms of bipolar disorder more quickly than many standard medications. Tamoxifen blocks an enzyme called protein kinase C, which is thought to be over-active during the manic phase.
A new study is providing highly successful parenting skills to parents with bipolar disorder, using the Triple P Positive Parenting Programme. The program has been shown to improve behavior in children and increase parental confidence, particularly for those experiencing instability of mood and behavior.
The study found that the number of office visits resulting in a bipolar disorder diagnosis for youths ages 19 and younger increased from 25 per 100,000 people in 1994-1995 to 1,003 per 100,000 people in 2002-2003. In contrast, adults saw a rise from 905 per 100,000 people to 1,679 per 100,000 people over the same period.
A study published in Archives of General Psychiatry found a substantial increase in office-based visit diagnoses for bipolar disorder among youth from 1994 to 2003. This growth was accompanied by rising prescription rates for mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants.
A preliminary study of 85 patients with bipolar disorder shows that modafinil can improve depressive symptoms, with 44% of participants reporting improved symptoms and 39% experiencing remission after six weeks.
The Bipolar Disorder Phenome Database offers a comprehensive resource for researchers to identify genes linked to bipolar disorder, utilizing over 5,000 patients' clinical data and DNA samples. This database complements existing genetic data and enables researchers to correlate specific symptoms with genetic material.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati will use functional MRI and MRS to study brain chemistry in response to different treatments. The goal is to better understand the disease, identify early warning signs, and personalize treatment plans.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have found that people with bipolar disorder experience accelerated brain tissue loss, particularly in areas controlling memory, face recognition, and coordination. The study shows that repeated episodes of illness can lead to greater brain loss and decline in mental ability.
Research finds genetic links between bipolar disorder and comorbid conditions like anxiety disorders, ADHD, and autoimmune disorders. Comorbidities can complicate treatment and lead to poor health and decreased life expectancy.
Two studies presented at the Seventh International Conference on Bipolar Disorder have identified novel pathways and markers for diagnosing and treating bipolar disorder. The findings suggest a new avenue for treating the underlying cause of the disease, rather than just treating symptoms.
A genome-wide study reveals that variations in multiple genes contribute to the development of bipolar disorder. The researchers identified a promising target gene DGKH, which produces an enzyme involved in lithium's therapeutic effects. This discovery may lead to the development of new and more effective medications for bipolar disorder.
A survey estimated that approximately 4.4% of U.S. adults may have some form of bipolar disorder during their lifetime, with 2.4% having a sub-threshold condition. The study found that many individuals with bipolar symptoms receive treatment for depression rather than manic symptoms.
A recent study found that bipolar spectrum disorder affects about 1% of the population, with individuals receiving inadequate treatment. The research highlights the importance of identifying subtypes of bipolar disorder and using appropriate medication to effectively manage symptoms.
A study published in The Journal of Pediatrics found that delayed treatment of childhood-onset bipolar disorder results in longer periods of depression, more episodes, and increased substance abuse risk. Adults with untreated childhood-onset bipolar disorder experienced poorer quality of life and were less responsive to treatment.
A University of Colorado study found that intensive psychotherapy added to medication significantly improved bipolar disorder symptoms, with patients experiencing better mental health faster. The research also highlighted the importance of family-focused therapy in stabilizing daily routines and coping strategies.
Researchers studied 366 participants with bipolar disorder, finding that adding antidepressants to mood stabilizers did not improve outcomes or trigger manic episodes. The study suggests careful management of mood stabilizer medications may be a reasonable alternative to adding antidepressants.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that the Clock gene, regulating biological clocks, is involved in developing bipolar disorder in mice. The study reveals behaviors similar to humans with bipolar disorder, including hyperactivity and euphoria, which are restored by lithium treatment.
Recent advances in bipolar II disorder and related disorders highlight the need for further research due to changes in diagnostic criteria and mixed profiles. Treatment options, such as mood stabilisers, are recommended for mixed depression, but controlled pharmacological studies are lacking.
A new test, Hypomanic symptom check list (HCL-32), has been validated to identify type II bipolar disorder patients. The test, which consists of 32 questions, is more precise than the Mood disorder questionnaire in identifying this underdiagnosed disease.
Researchers at UIC aim to develop a compound blocking mania associated with bipolar disorder, improving on dated 'mood stabilizers' like lithium and valproic acid. The goal is to create safer, more effective treatments for the mental illness affecting over 2 million Americans.
Researchers aim to identify genetic underpinnings of early-onset bipolar disorder, a mental illness affecting millions of Americans. The two-year study will analyze DNA from participants and their parents to develop more rational treatments.
Scientists have identified a crucial role of TPH2 protein in regulating serotonin levels, which may be linked to the development of depression and manic depression. The study suggests that variations in the TPH2 gene are associated with an increased risk of developing these psychiatric disorders.
A new gene, Slynar, has been linked to both depression and bipolar disorder, affecting around 10% of cases. Researchers hope the discovery will lead to new treatments for these conditions.
A study of 438 children and adolescents with bipolar spectrum disorders found that those with short episodes of mania were similar to those meeting full diagnostic criteria, suggesting a need for revised diagnostic criteria. The study's results will inform changes to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV.
The survey reveals that caregivers experience devastating consequences, including relapse, hospitalization, and financial strain. Caregivers also emphasize the importance of effective medication and long-term care to maintain their loved ones' overall well-being.
A recent study by the National Institute of Mental Health found that bipolar disorder exacts twice as much toll on workplace productivity as major depression, costing nearly half as much in lost wages. The researchers attribute this disparity to bipolar disorder's more severe depressive episodes rather than its manic periods.
A Wake Forest University research team is analyzing brain changes in individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder to better understand the diseases. They are comparing post-mortem brain tissue with normal tissue, focusing on the temporal lobe's structures involved in learning and memory.
A new care model for bipolar disorder, developed by Brown University researchers, has shown promise in reducing manic episodes and improving quality of life. The team-based approach involves psychiatrists and nurses working together to manage symptoms, resulting in a significant reduction in symptoms and improved function.
Youth with bipolar disorder show increased brain activity when rating hostile faces, indicating difficulty processing emotional cues. This finding may help refine diagnosis and understanding of the underlying brain mechanisms.
Researchers found five predictors associated with bipolar disorder risk: people were unfriendly, co-morbid anxiety, depression diagnosis within five years, family history of bipolar disorder, and legal problems. These findings may help physicians better assess a patient's risk for bipolar disorder.
A special issue of PLoS Medicine explores how corporate sponsorships are creating new diseases, medicalizing everyday life, and promoting unnecessary treatments. The articles highlight examples of disease mongering, including the marketing of Viagra for 'normal' men and the over-diagnosis of bipolar disorder in children.
The landmark COBY study found bipolar disorder in children and teens progresses differently than in adults, with more frequent mood swings and longer symptom duration. Children and teens often switch between different illness sub-types during the course of follow-up.
Researchers assessed 263 children and adolescents with bipolar spectrum disorders, finding that symptoms were longer-lasting and more variable in youth than adults. The study also revealed faster cycling between symptomatic periods and a higher likelihood of diagnosis changes over time.
Researchers at Yale discovered that brain changes associated with bipolar disorder are diminished in patients taking mood-stabilizing medications, holding promise for halting the progression of the disorder. The study's findings highlight the importance of research on bipolar disorder in youths, who are at high risk for suicide.
A team of scientists from the University of New South Wales has identified a gene called FAT that is associated with an increased risk of bipolar disorder. The discovery was made using a multi-faceted approach that included studying families, patients, and therapeutic drug mouse models.
A recent study by Bradley Hospital found that up to twenty percent of adolescents on psychiatric units may be manic-depressive. The study used a mania rating scale and found that these patients were more suicidal and aggressive than those admitted for depression alone.
Patients with bipolar disorder experience worsening psychosocial disability as depressive symptom severity increases, and vice versa. Psychosocial functioning normalizes when patients are asymptomatic, but remains poor compared to well controls.
Researchers found that CBZ-ERC significantly reduced manic and mixed symptoms for patients with Bipolar I Disorder. The study also showed that the medication was generally well-tolerated, with only 14.3% of patients experiencing a relapse.
A new study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that children of bipolar parents scored higher than healthy controls on a creativity test. The research suggests a possible link between creativity and bipolar disorder, with some experts attributing creative activity to mobilizing energy from negative emotions.
Researchers found that children with bipolar disorder exhibit over-reactive amygdala responses to negative stimuli, leading to under-reactive cognitive behavior. This study highlights the need for targeted treatments and interventions for pediatric bipolar disorder.
A study combining genome scan data from 11 independent linkage studies found strong genetic signals on chromosomes 6 and 8 associated with bipolar disorder. The analysis involved over 1,000 families and 5,179 individuals from North America, Italy, Germany, Portugal, the UK, Ireland, and Israel.
A study has found a significant connection between the CAPON gene and schizophrenia, with brain samples from patients showing higher levels of the short form of the protein. This increase was predominantly seen in individuals with variants of the CAPON gene previously linked to schizophrenia.
Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) has been found to be an effective treatment for bipolar disorder, helping patients manage daily routines and relationships to prevent mania and depression. The study suggests that IPSRT is particularly beneficial for individuals with more regular social routines and better physical health.
A four-year multicenter study will examine why minorities face dangerous misdiagnoses for mood disorders, leading to excessive antipsychotic drug use among African-Americans. The research aims to identify underlying reasons and develop new education techniques to improve diagnosis and treatment plans.
Researchers found a disrupted brain wave pattern in patients with schizophrenia, which may help understand attention deficits. The study aims to develop a biological test to distinguish patients with schizophrenia from those with bipolar disorder.
The global survey found that 26% of respondents never disclose their bipolar disorder due to social stigma, while 71% believe the public does not understand their illness. The survey also revealed that successful treatment would lead to significant quality of life changes.
A new survey suggests that Seroquel provides significant quality of life improvements for bipolar patients, with 79% believing a successful treatment would lead to increased functionality and improved lifestyle. The medication has been shown to effectively manage symptoms of depression and anxiety in rapid-cycling patients.
New study finds bipolar disorder prevalence higher than previously thought, with a significant economic burden and high risk of suicide; Lithium treatment may help reduce these risks.
Researchers have found that bipolar disorder is associated with difficulties modulating brain regions that detect error and promote accurate responses. Additionally, a two-pronged pharmacologic approach of both a mood stabilizer and an antipsychotic may be necessary to treat both the depressive and manic phases of bipolar disorder.
Research identifies genetic linkages associated with bipolar disorder, including a possible connection to autoimmune thyroiditis. The findings suggest that identifying these genetic markers could help develop more effective treatments or prevent the disorder in at-risk individuals.
EQUETRO demonstrates significant reduction in manic symptoms for patients previously taking valproate or lithium, with average YMRS scores decreasing by 10.8 and 11.6 points, respectively. The medication is an effective treatment option for acute manic and mixed episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder.
Studies show SEROQUEL reduces suicidal thinking in bipolar depression, improves quality of life, and enhances treatment adherence. Improved compliance with medication is also a significant benefit.
Scientists have identified several genes that appear to be switched on by lithium, which may lead to the development of more effective treatments for bipolar disorder. The study found that one gene, GPR88, is associated with a rat model of mania and codes for an orphan receptor that could potentially target dopamine signaling.
Researchers found decreased calcium responses in olfactory receptor cells from patients with bipolar disorder. These findings may provide new targets for drug development and improve treatment predictions.
A study found that bipolar disorder is prevalent among patients in an urban primary care clinic, with 9.8% screening positive for the condition. Patients who screened positive reported worse health-related quality of life and social impairment compared to those who did not screen positive.
The new guidelines, developed by a team of leading experts in child psychiatry, provide evidence-based recommendations for treating children and adolescents with bipolar disorder. The guidelines emphasize the importance of using multiple medications to stabilize moods and promote recovery.