Screening pattern of valproate level on admission to psychiatric unit in patients receiving the medication: quality improvement project
Screening pattern of valproate level on admission to psychiatric unit in patients receiving the medication: quality improvement project

Summary/Abstract: The estimated lifetime prevalence of bipolar I and II disorders in general population is 3.7%- 3.9 % in recent epidemiological studies. Based on APA guidelines for management of bipolar disorder, the first-line pharmacological treatment for more severe manic or mixed episodes is the initiation of lithium plus an antipsychotic or valproate plus an antipsychotic. For less ill patients, monotherapy with lithium, valproate, or an antipsychotic such as olanzapine may be sufficient and the initial treatment for patients who experience rapid cycling should include lithium or valproate.

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