Managing bipolar disorder during pregnancy: weighing the risks and benefits

Can J Psychiatry. 2002 Jun;47(5):426-36. doi: 10.1177/070674370204700503.

Abstract

Background: Challenges for the clinical management of bipolar disorder (BD) during pregnancy are multiple and complex and include competing risks to mother and offspring.

Method: We reviewed recent research findings on the course of BD during pregnancy and postpartum, as well as reproductive safety data on the major mood stabilizers.

Results: Pregnancy, and especially the postpartum period, are associated with a high risk for recurrence of BD. This risk appears to be limited by mood-stabilizing treatments and markedly increased by the abrupt discontinuation of such treatments. However, drugs used to treat or protect against recurrences of BD vary markedly in teratogenic potential: there are low risks with typical neuroleptics, moderate risks with lithium, higher risks with older anticonvulsants such as valproic acid and carbamazepine, and virtually unknown risks with other newer-generation anticonvulsants and atypical antipsychotics (ATPs).

Conclusions: Clinical management of BD through pregnancy and postpartum calls for balanced assessments of maternal and fetal risks and benefits.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abnormalities, Drug-Induced / etiology*
  • Antimanic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Antimanic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antipsychotic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Antipsychotic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Bipolar Disorder / diagnosis
  • Bipolar Disorder / drug therapy*
  • Bipolar Disorder / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / diagnosis
  • Pregnancy Complications / drug therapy*
  • Pregnancy Complications / psychology
  • Recurrence
  • Risk

Substances

  • Antimanic Agents
  • Antipsychotic Agents