The use of carbamazepine as an adjunctive medication in the treatment of affective disorders: a clinical report

Can J Psychiatry. 1984 Nov;29(7):605-8. doi: 10.1177/070674378402900712.

Abstract

This is a report of an open clinical trial of Carbamazepine in the treatment of patients who suffered from affective disorders and who did not have an adequate response to Lithium or other medications. Our findings suggest that Carbamazepine can be a useful adjunctive medication when used in combination with Lithium and other psychotropic medications. The characteristics of the patients who responded were examined. The clinical state of the patients at the point of intervention varied; eight patients were manic and four patients were depressed. Four patients were judged to have had markedly effective responses, four showed an effective response and in four there was a slightly effective response. From the duration of the trials it was evident that in cases where Carbamazepine produced a good response its effect was seen as early as two weeks. The mean daily dose used varied from 300-1300 mgs. Because of the open nature of this trial, Carbamazepine was not withdrawn except in one instance.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Antipsychotic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bipolar Disorder / drug therapy*
  • Carbamazepine / therapeutic use*
  • Depressive Disorder / drug therapy*
  • Drug Resistance
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lithium / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Psychotic Disorders / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Antidepressive Agents
  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Carbamazepine
  • Lithium