Long-term prophylactic effects of carbamazepine in affective disorder.

The prophylactic effects of carbamazepine (CBZP) were studied in 32 patients with affective disorder who were receiving long-term therapy with CBZP. Complete inhibition of both manic and depressive episodes was observed in four cases, reduced incidence of episodes or decreased intensity of symptoms in twenty, and no change in eight. CBZP was significantly more effective in cases with an onset before the age of 20, and subjects showing a continuous pattern of alternating episodes responded better than those with a more intermittent history of mania and depression. Where CBZP had an effect it was generally apparent soon after therapy started. These results suggest that in some cases CBZP is an agent suitable for long-term continuous prophylactic therapy in manic-depressive disorder.