Background: Although useful in bipolar disorder, mood stabilizers, such as lithium, divalproex sodium, and carbamazepine, can cause significant weight gain.
Method: We conducted a retrospective chart review of 5 patients with DSM-IV bipolar disorder or schizoaffective disorder who were treated with topiramate as adjunctive therapy or monotherapy.
Results: All 5 patients had a good response to treatment at a mean topiramate dose of 195 mg/day (range, 100-375 mg/day). All patients lost a substantial amount of weight on topiramate treatment. The average weight loss was 22 lb (10 kg; range, 8-56 lb [4-25 kg]). None of the patients discontinued topiramate because of side effects.
Conclusion: Topiramate may represent a valuable alternative to existing mood stabilizers, either as an adjunct or as monotherapy in patients with bipolar disorder or schizoaffective disorder.
From the Editors
This PDF is free for all visitors!
