Reviewing medications for bipolar disorder: understanding the mechanisms of action

J Clin Psychiatry. 2009 Jan;70(1):e02. doi: 10.4088/jcp.7128br6c.e02.

Abstract

Modern psychiatry is beginning to understand mood disorders according to a neuroplastic rather than a neurochemical model. Neuroplasticity is the brain's ongoing ability to restructure itself over a lifetime by making new neural connections. Patients with mood disorders have been found to have neuroplastic changes, including reductions in hippocampal volume, glial and neuronal cell density, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Using the neuroplasticity model of mood disorders, specific neurobiological mechanisms can be targeted for treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antipsychotic Agents / adverse effects
  • Antipsychotic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Bipolar Disorder / drug therapy*
  • Brain / drug effects*
  • Humans
  • Neuronal Plasticity / drug effects*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents