Atypical antipsychotic drugs:
In some cases, the newer atypical antipsychotic drugs such as clozapine
or olanzapine may help relieve severe or refractory symptoms of
bipolar disorder and prevent recurrences of mania. More research
is needed to establish the safety and efficacy of atypical antipsychotics
as long-term treatments for this disorder.
Psychotherapy:
Certain types of psychotherapy or psychosocial interventions, in
combination with medication, often can provide additional benefit.
These include cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal and social
rhythm therapy, family systems therapy, and psychoeducation.
Electroconvulsive therapy:
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was an accepted treatment in the
past, and is still used today when other treatments have failed.
There is current research work on transcranial magnetic stimulation
as an alternative to ECT.
Alternative treatments:
Lithium orotate is used as an alternative treatment to lithium
carbonate by some sufferers of bipolar disorder, mainly because
it is available without a doctor's prescription. It is sometimes
sold as "organic lithium" by nutritionists, as well as
under a wide variety of brand names. There seems to be little evidence
for its use in clinical treatment in preference to lithium carbonate.
Self-treatment without medical monitoring is potentially dangerous.
Omega-3 fatty acids are also used as an alternative or additional treatment for bipolar disorder. Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids which can be found in wild salmon, flaxseed and even walnuts. To receive a significant dose, however, omega-3 fatty acids must usually be taken in the form of a fish oil supplement. It has been hypothesized that the therapeutic ingredient in omega-3 fatty acid preparations is Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and that supplements should be high in this ingredient to be beneficial. However, omega-3 fatty acids are not as yet accepted as a mainstream treatment, because the results of randomized controlled studies have been mixed, with some showing strong positive results and others showing little or no effect, and research into these substances is continuing.
