Bipolar disorder is a common and complex condition, starting early in life and continuing throughout the life cycle. Most people suffering from bipolar disorder manifest other problems as well, including metabolic disturbances, cardiovascular disease, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and borderline personality disorder, among others. The treatment of bipolar disorder needs to be conceptualized within this context of early onset, chronic course, and significant co-morbidity. Because of its unique mode of action, its efficacy and its good tolerability profile, aripiprazole is well placed among the different treatment options to benefit the patient with bipolar disorder. This article will focus on aripiprazole's pharmacology, efficacy, effectiveness, and tolerability from a clinical perspective, while considering the complexities of bipolar disorder.
Pharmacotherapy of Bipolar I Disorder: Focus on Aripiprazole