Due to a lack of strong evidence of a RC specific treatment, it is recommended that patients with rapid cycling bipolar disorder (RCBD) it is recommended that people with RCBD should receive the same treatment as individuals with bipolar disorder. It is recommended that it should be treated with second generation anti-psychotics to treat mania and that patients should stop taking anti-depressants. 

Xavier University

Due to the nature of bipolar disorder, it is difficult to determine the effectiveness of treatment over a short period of time. Therefore, treatment for rapid cycling bipolar disorder is most effective when it occurs over a period of 6-12 months.

Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder: Treatment 

Roosen, L. & Sienaert. (2022). Evidence based treatment strategies for rapid cycling bipolar disorder, a systematic review. Journal of Affective Disorders, 311. https://doi.org/10.106/j.jad.2022.05.017.

Evidence based strategies for rapid cycling bipolar disorder, a systematic review 

Studies have found that olanzapine taken in combination with mood stabilizers, quetiapine, lithium with lamotrigine, and high dose levothyroxine taken for any type of mood episode.

Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder: Pharmacological Treatment 

Studies have found these treatments to also be effective: 
- Electroconvulsive therapy 
- Light therapy 
- Sleep deprivation 
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation 
- Vagus nerve stimulation 
- Cognitive behavioral therapy 

Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder: Non-Pharmacological Treatment 

Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder: Rapid Cycling Specific Treatment 

Refining treatment specifically for individuals with rapid cycling bipolar disorder is important because it can reduce morbidity and mortality rates in individuals with the disorder.

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