How do you approach mood stabilizer selection for older adults with bipolar II disorder?
When do you pursue dose reduction versus medication discontinuation versus switching agents in this population? How do you weigh risks of mood stabilizers and antipsychotics such as cognitive slowing, metabolic effects, EPS, or electrolyte disturbances?
2 Answers
Mednet Member
Psychiatry · Thapar Renu K Office
Answered on
Depending upon age, medical illnesses, other medications the patient is on, and the symptoms, the appropriate medication will be decided.
If the patient is hypomanic, a mood stabilizer will help.
Also, if the patient is on an antidepressant, reducing the dose or even stopping it can be a choice.
If ...
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Mednet MemberInvited Expert
Psychiatry · McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School
Answered on
These are several questions in one "package" - will keep my answer here brief.
- Selecting mood stabilizers for older adults with Bipolar II disorder requires balancing long-term stability against increased susceptibility to side effects due to age-related declines in renal and hepatic clearance.
- Sta...
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