Guidance, mainly intended for GPs, is provided on the treatment of acute mania. Mania is a state of elevated mood and excitable behaviour. Elevated mood can be classified as hypomania or mania, depending on severity. The treatment depends upon whether the patient is already on antimanic drugs. If a patient is not taking any antimanic medication then the first-line treatment is with an antipsychotic or a mood stabiliser such as lithium or valproate. Benzodiazepines can also be used at initial presentation if required. If the patient is already on antimanic medication then either dose increments of existing medication or the addition of adjuvant medication should be considered. Depot antipsychotic medication is also an option if compliance with oral medication is an issue. This article will expand on all of these options and provide further discussion on the subject of acute mania management.
Keywords: mania, hypomania, bipolar affective disorder, antipsychotic, mood stabilisers, lithium, valproate