Objective. To revise the psychopharmacology algorithms for the treatment of mood disorders published in 1999 in Japan. Methods. The algorithms were established based on clinical psychopharmacological evidence, the results of a questionnaire survey sent to 200 Japanese psychiatrists, and the consensus of all the research members. Results. Six categorized algorithms have been developed, i.e. mild or moderate major depression, severe non-psychotic major depression, psychotic depression, mania, bipolar depression, and rapid cycling mood disorder. Conclusion. The revised algorithms will be helpful for the treatment of mood disorders in Japan.
Keywords: Japan; Psychopharmacology algorithm; bipolar disorder; major depression; mood disorders.