The combination of lithium and carbamazepine in treatment and prevention of manic-depressive disorder: a review and a case report.
The action of carbamazepine (CZP) is similar to that of lithium with regard to therapeutic effect towards mania; in addition, it has a certain effect towards endogenous depression. Furthermore, CZP has a prophylactic effect towards manic-depressive mood swings, although probably not as expressed as that of lithium. In some cases, especially in rapid-cyclers, neither CZP nor lithium have this effect when applied separately, whereas the combination of the two drugs is effective in some cases. A review of the relevant literature, as well as an illustrative case history, is presented.
Department of Psychiatry, University of Aarhus, Psychiatric Hospital, Risskov, Denmark.
L S
LS
Strömgren
D000368:Aged; D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000235:genetics / Q000523:psychology; D002220:Carbamazepine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D004565:Electroconvulsive Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008094:Lithium / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D002220:Carbamazepine; D008094:Lithium