The phenomenon of rapid cycling in bipolar mood disorders: a review.
OBJECTIVE
To review the various pharmacological and nonpharmacological factors associated with the induction of rapid cycling in bipolar mood disorder, and to introduce the idea that parturition may also have a role. Factors known to contribute to bipolar mood disorder rapid cycling include antidepressant agents, female gender and middle age. Currently, there is evidence that hypothyroidism may also play a role.


METHODS
A critical review of the literature was undertaken.


CONCLUSIONS
Caution should be exercised in the use of antidepressants in patients with bipolar mood disorders.
Persad
E
E
London Psychiatric Hospital, Mood Disorders Unit, University of Western Ontario.
Oluboka
O J
OJ
Sharma
V
V
Mazmanian
D
D
Kueneman
K
K
D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007037:Hypothyroidism / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010507:Periodicity; D011247:Pregnancy; D011644:Puerperal Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology; D012737:Sex Factors
D000928:Antidepressive Agents