Used to Treat Affective Disorders Depression and Bipolar Syndrome

Drugs Used to Treat Affective Disorders Depression and Bipolar Syndrome 

Affective disorders comprise the group of mental conditions that includes depression, bipolar syndrome (manic-depression), and several others that are characterized by a marked disturbance in a patient s mood.41 Patients with an affective disorder typically present with an inappropriate disposition, feeling unreasonably sad and discouraged (major depressive disorder) or fluctuating between periods of depression and excessive excitation and elation (bipolar disorder). 

Because these forms of mental illness are relatively common, many rehabilitation specialists will work with patients who are receiving drug therapy for an affective disorder. Also, serious injury or illness may precipitate an episode of depression in the patient undergoing physical rehabilitation. Consequently, this chapter will discuss the pharmacologic management of affective disorders, as well as how antidepressant and antimanic drugs may influence the patient involved in physical therapy and occupational therapy. 

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