Treatment of Bipolar Depression-View Presentation

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Ron Winchell, along with Dr. Kathy Krohn, introduced Dr. Michael Gitlin in the final session of an annual meeting. Dr. Gitlin, a professor at UCLA and director of the Mood Disorders Clinic, is noted for his extensive work and teaching in psychiatry, particularly regarding mood disorders and the historical transition in the field from psychodynamic to psychobiological models. In his presentation on bipolar depression, he stressed that depression, rather than mania, is the dominant pole in bipolar disorder. Dr. Gitlin acknowledged the challenges in treating bipolar depression, due in part to the limited evidence available. He discussed various treatments like mood stabilizers and second-generation antipsychotics, with a detailed analysis of their efficacy and risks, especially concerning antidepressants. Central to his talk was the notion of TEAS, or treatment emergent affective switch, a potential consequence in bipolar disorder where treatment overshoots into mania or hypomania. Dr. Gitlin presented data showing that patients with bipolar disorder spend significantly more time in depressive states than manic. He also addressed the comparative efficacy of treatments including lithium, noting its long-standing use but limited modern study evidence. The importance of tailored treatment, considering individual patient responses and risks, was emphasized, alongside the ongoing need for further empirical evidence to guide clinical practice with greater precision.

Keywords

Dr. Ron Winchell

Dr. Kathy Krohn

Dr. Michael Gitlin

UCLA

Mood Disorders Clinic

bipolar depression

psychobiological models

treatment emergent affective switch

mood stabilizers

second-generation antipsychotics

lithium

tailored treatment