Trends in pharmacotherapy and guideline comparisons in bipolar disorder: a narrative review
- Author:
Vin RYU
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:Focused issue of this month
- From:Journal of the Korean Medical Association 2026;69(3):217-227
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
- Abstract: This article summarizes the clinical presentation, importance of early diagnosis, pharmacological strategies, psychosocial interventions, and future perspectives of bipolar disorder. It also emphasizes the need for evidence-based multidisciplinary approaches to this chronic mental illness, which has a rising global lifetime prevalence of approximately 0.5%. This review provides a comprehensive overview addressing diagnostic delays (averaging 5–10 years) and comorbidities.Current concepts: Clinically, bipolar disorder is classified into types 1 and 2 and is characterized by recurrent mania/hypomania, depression, and mixed states. Common psychiatric comorbidities (e.g., anxiety disorders) and physical comorbidities (e.g., cardiovascular disease) contribute to diagnostic delays. Challenges in early diagnosis stem from the absence of biomarkers; however, emerging trends include digital health tools (smartphone apps, wearables) and precision psychiatry integrating genetic and neuroimaging data. Core pharmacological treatments include mood stabilizers (lithium, valproate), atypical antipsychotics (quetiapine, aripiprazole), and selective antidepressants. Combination therapy is used for manic episodes, with cautious antidepressant use in depressive episodes to minimize switch risk. Guideline comparisons reveal regional differences and debate on antidepressant efficacy versus risks. Regarding psychosocial interventions, cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychoeducation, and family therapy are effective for relapse prevention, with digital integration representing a forward-looking approach.Discussion and conclusion: Multidisciplinary integration of pharmacological and psychosocial interventions is essential for improving outcomes in bipolar disorder. Promising directions include novel drugs (NRX-101, lumateperone), gene therapy, artificial intelligence-driven personalization, and efforts to address global disparities. However, developing early diagnostic tools and harmonizing guidelines remain key challenges. Evidence-based strategies can minimize relapse and improve quality of life.
