Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder Prognosis

Rapid cycling refers to the switch from manic high to depressive low that occurs in patients with bipolar disorder. Research suggests that the best treatment for rapid cycling is mood stabilizers.

Manic

• One-half of the rapid cycling is mania. During manic episodes, a person can have inflated views of himself. He often will engage in compulsive behavior such as shopping, sex and gambling. A person in mania will need little sleep and will have trouble adjusting to relaxing environments. He can be very dangerous and can put himself in harm's way without realizing it.

Depression

• The other half of rapid cycling is the depression stage. During depression, a person will exhibit a loss of interest in life. She can have sleep and eating disruptions. She often will have a preoccupation with death or suicide. She often withdraws from her social commitments.

Rapid Cycling

• Rapid cycling is often confusing for those observing the person with bipolar disorder. At times, the person may appear one way and, very soon after, appear entirely different. This is hallmark of rapid cycling.

Treatment

• Research suggests that people in rapid cycling should be treated with mood stabilizers so they can break the cycle. Some mood stabilizers include lithium, valproate and lamotrigine.

Choosing a Medication

• Many factors should be considered when selecting a medicinal treatment for bipolar rapid cycling. These factors include whether the majority of symptoms are manic or depressive, whether cost is a factor and if the patient is concerned about weight gain.