Mood stabilization and the role of antipsychotics.

The pharmacological management of bipolar disorder is complex as a result of the cyclic nature of the condition. Long-term treatment is, however, essential to control the symptoms of depression and mania and to stabilize the cyclical mood changes. In particular the use of mood stabilizers in all phases of treatment has been acknowledged. The atypical antipsychotics are being increasingly used to control acute manic episodes, and data are emerging to support their mood-stabilizing and antidepressant properties. This article will review the results from open and double-blind studies with quetiapine, ziprasidone, risperidone and olanzapine in the management of bipolar disorder.