Preventing Cognitive Decline in Bipolar Disorder

August 14, 2013 · Posted in Current Treatments

Here are some suggestions from BNN Editor-in-Chief Robert M. Post, MD for preventing cognitive decline in patients with bipolar disorder.

1. Prevent Episodes with Long-term Prophylaxis

2. Remove Sedating or Impairing Drugs

3. Add Folate to Decrease Homocysteine

4. Treat Depression to Remission

5. Consider Adding:

a. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) for Mood and ADHD

b. Modafinil (Provigil) for Attention and ADHD

c. A Stimulant for ADHD

6. Add Lithium at 150mg/day for Neuroprotection in Mild Cognitive Impairment

7. Add Levitiracetam at 125mg/day to Decrease Hippocampal Hyperactivity

8. Treat Dementia Symptoms Early with:

a. Memantine (Namenda) AND/OR

b. Acetylcholine Esterase Inhibitors Such As Donepezil (Aricept)

9. Consider Adding an Anti-inflammatory Agent

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Although the editors of BipolarNews.org have made every effort to report accurate information, much of the work referenced here is in abstract or pre-publication form, and may not have received proper review by the scientific community at this time. Patients should consult with their physicians about any treatment decisions. Physicians should consult the peer-reviewed literature.

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