Bipolar Disorder in Primary Care: Considerations in Management

Abstract

Purpose of reviewBipolar disorder is a chronic mental illness that has significant morbidity and mortality implications globally. Increasingly, as with many mental health disorders, patients are being identified in primary care settings. Recent findingsIn this overview, we discuss screening and case identification, making the case for judicious use of screening tools coupled with follow-up clarifying questions. We review the main modalities of treatment including pharmacother-apy and the evidence for non-pharmacotherapy adjunctive approaches. We discuss recommendations and cautions regarding the use of antidepressants in this population. Finally, we explore the role of new models of care and pharmacogenetic testing. SummaryAs primary care providers play a critical role in the care of patients with bipolar disorder there are a number of important considerations both in the identification of patients as well as initiating and monitoring treatment.