Characteristics of bipolar disorder in early years

Depressed mood, loss of interest and enjoyment, and increased fatiguability are usually regarded as the most typical symptoms of depression, and at least two of these, plus at least two of the other symptoms described above should usually be present for a definite diagnosis. None of the symptoms should be present to an intense degree. Minimum duration of the whole episode is about 2 weeks.

Facilities for prompt and accurate serum lithium determinations should be available before initiating treatment [see Dosage and Administration 2. Indications and Usage for Lithium Carbonate See also: Ingrezza Lithium is a mood-stabilizing agent indicated for the treatment of manic episodes and as maintenance treatment for Bipolar I Disorder.

What is early-onset Bipolar Disorder? - Ryan Licht Sang Bipolar Foundation

Lithium Carbonate Dosage and Administration Pre-treatment Screening Before initiating treatment with lithium, renal function, vital signs, serum electrolytes, and thyroid function should be evaluated.

Concurrent medications should be assessed, and if the patient is a woman of childbearing potential, pregnancy status and potential should be considered. Starting Dosage Consider medical conditions and drug interactions that would affect lithium dosage and administration [see Warnings and Precautions 5.

In the absence of medical conditions and concomitant medications that would suggest starting at a lower dose, the recommended starting dose in adults is: Adjust daily dosage based on serum lithium concentration and clinical response.

Fine hand tremor, polyuria and mild thirst may occur during initial therapy for the acute manic phase, and may persist throughout treatment. Transient and mild nausea and general discomfort may also appear during the first few days of lithium administration.

These adverse reactions may subside with continued treatment, concomitant administration with food, temporary reduction or cessation of dosage. Dosage Recommendations in Pediatric Patients 12 to 17 Years of Age Dosage recommendations for lithium in patients 12 years and older are similar to that of adults [see Specific Populations 8.

Serum Lithium Monitoring Blood samples for serum lithium determination should be drawn immediately prior to the next dose when lithium concentrations are relatively stable i.

Total reliance must not be placed on serum concentrations alone. Accurate patient evaluation requires both clinical and laboratory analysis. In addition to regular monitoring of serum lithium concentrations for patients on maintenance treatment, serum lithium concentrations should be monitored after any change in dosage, concurrent medication e.

Patients abnormally sensitive to lithium may exhibit toxic signs at serum concentrations that are within what is considered the therapeutic range.

Geriatric patients often respond to reduced dosage, and may exhibit signs of toxicity at serum concentrations ordinarily tolerated by other patients [see Specific Populations 8.

Dosage Adjustments during Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period If the decision is made to continue lithium treatment during pregnancy, monitor serum lithium concentrations and adjust the dosage as needed in a pregnant woman because renal lithium clearance increases during pregnancy.

Avoid sodium restriction or diuretic administration. To decrease the risk of postpartum lithium intoxication, decrease or discontinue lithium therapy two to three days before the expected delivery date to reduce neonatal concentrations and reduce the risk of maternal lithium intoxication due to the change in vascular volume which occurs during delivery.

At delivery, vascular volume rapidly decreases and the renal clearance of lithium may decrease to pre-pregnancy concentrations. Restart treatment at the preconception dose when the patient is medically stable after delivery with careful monitoring of serum lithium concentrations [see Warnings and Precautions 5.

Titrate slowly while frequently monitoring serum lithium concentrations and monitoring for signs of lithium toxicity. Dosage Forms and Strengths Each mg capsule for oral administration contains: Each mg capsule for oral administration contains:Lastly, a comparison was performed, within each national group, between individuals with early (≤21 years) versus later (>21 years) onset of bipolar disorder to determine whether onset age was a reliable predictor of unfavorable illness characteristics in both Argentina and the United States.

Bipolar II disorder (pronounced "bipolar two") is a form of mental illness. Bipolar II is similar to bipolar I disorder, with moods cycling between high and low over time.

May 06,  · Bipolar affective disorder, or manic-depressive illness (MDI), is a common, severe, and persistent mental illness. This condition is a serious lifelong struggle and challenge.

Jul 24,  · While bipolar disorder affects men and women equally, about three times as many women experience rapid cycling bipolar disorder. The median age of onset for bipolar disorder is 25 years of age, however the illness can develop in childhood or as late as in the 40s or caninariojana.com: Valley Behavioral Health System.

Bipolar disorder is a disabling mental illness that is characterized by episodes of both elevated or irritable mood and depression. 1,2 Currently, lithium is the first-line choice for maintenance. NEW DVD: Making Peace with Chronic PTSD -- Marla's Story Marla Handy has nothing to hide --anymore.

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