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From: HeatherOK on 7 Jun 2007 19:44
FAQ3: Long-term prognosis of BP

http://www.pendulum.org
FAQ3:

Posted by Gandalf:
Long-term prognosis of bipolar disorder.
http://www.mentalhealth.com/dis/p20-md02.html
http://www.athealth.com/Consumer/newsletter/FPN_4_29.html

Although most clinical and demographic variables were not
strong prognostic indicators in bipolar disorder, switching
polarity within episodes was. Most episodes among the
poor-prognosis patients were polyphasic, while most episodes
among the comparison group with a better prognosis were
monophasic. Of particular importance to neurofeedback training,
the relevance of these findings to the kindling' model was discussed.
...
{For those of us who are still learning to speak pdoc -
"prognosis" means the long-term outcome of the disorder (how well we do)
"switching polarity" means experiencing mixed states, i.e. both poles
of bipolar

"polyphasic" means similarly experiencing more than one phase or pole of
bipolar "monophasic" means a vanilla manic or depressed episode, no
chocolate sprinkles}
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A large number of links to BP information may be found at:
http://www.psycom.net/depression.central.bipolar.html
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FAQ4:

"Ultra Rapid Cycling" by Lynda Cunningham
URC can be a formidable condition to treat.

Moods cycles so rapidly, one can barely come up for air. Unless someone
is there to support the person who is URC it may be difficult to recognize
what
is happening...especially if the person is experiencing delusions or is
paranoid.

Treatment of a person with URC involves combination therapy..often with
one of the new mood stabilizers - MS (Neurontin, Lamictal, and Topomax).
These may be used together or may be added to the older MS such as
Lithium, Tegretol, and Depakote.
The use of anti psychotics (Zyprexa. Risperdal, Seroquel) are used in
during a manic episode. They are effective in curbing, agitation,
irritation,
and delusions. Often, they are only needed short term but a person may
benefit
from a longer trial.

There is effective treatment for people with URC but it is essential for
one's
pdoc to be made aware of these mood swings. Delaying treatment can be
hazardous
to those who are experiencing these rapid swings in mood as well as to one's
family and friends.
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