Duration of maintenance treatment with antipsychotics or mood stabilizers in individuals with bipolar disorder
2023 updated
Maintenance therapy with mood stabilizers or antipsychotic medicines should be considered for at least six months for adults with bipolar disorder in remission, carefully balancing effectiveness, side-effects and individual preference.
Strength of recommendation: CONDITIONAL
Certainty of evidence: LOW
[2012]
Recommendation(s)
In individuals with long term and/or recurrent psychotic disorders (including schizophrenia), stable for several years on antipsychotic treatment, withdrawal may be considered keeping in mind the increased risk of relapse, possible adverse effects of medicines, and individual preferences in consultation with the family. This decision should be made preferably in consultation with a mental health professional. When medicines are withdrawn, individuals and family members need to be educated to detect early symptoms of relapse, and close clinical monitoring should be done.
Strength of recommendation: CONDITIONAL
Quality of the evidence: MODERATE
Evidence Profile
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