Bipolar disorder: assessment and management

Assessing the evidence

We found 32 studies through surveillance of this guideline.

This included evidence on case identification and assessment, pharmacological treatments of mania in adults, and pharmacological treatments of bipolar depression in children and young people that supports current recommendations.

We also identified evidence that was not consistent with current recommendations on pharmacological treatments of bipolar depression in adults, long-term management in adults, psychological interventions for bipolar disorder, and pharmacological treatments for mania in children and young people. This evidence was considered to be insufficient in volume and the results insufficiently conclusive to change recommendations in these areas at this time.

We did not find any evidence related to improving the experience of carers or management of physical health in adults.

Additionally, we identified relevant ongoing studies or research due to be published in the next 3 to 5 years. There are 5 ongoing trials investigating the effects of psychological interventions for bipolar disorder. A further study is investigating the effects of pharmacological interventions for bipolar disorder in children and young people. The progress of the ongoing studies will be monitored and any published results will be considered at the next surveillance review.

Equalities

No equalities issues were identified during the surveillance process.

Overall decision

After considering all the evidence and views of topic experts and stakeholders, we decided that an update is not necessary for this guideline.

See how we made the decision for further information.