[Effects of lithium, valproic acid, carbamazepine and antipsychotic agents on cognition in bipolar disorders-A systematic review].

BACKGROUND

Until now the long-term consequences of the medical treatment for bipolar disorder have barely been examined, especially the consequences with respect to cognitive impairment and dementia. Some studies show signs that some treatment options have a better effect on the brain than others. This review summarizes the current state of research.

OBJECTIVE

The effects of long-term consequences of lithium, valproic acid, carbamazepine and antipsychotic agents on the development of dementia or cognitive impairments in patients with bipolar disorder were investigated.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was carried out in the PubMed data base from May to July 2022.

RESULTS

The majority of studies showed that lithium has a neuroprotective effect and can lower the risk of developing dementia, whereas an increased risk was found in patients taking valproic acid. There are only very few studies that deal with antipsychotic medication and the long-term consequences concerning dementia.

CONCLUSION

Lithium should be recommended for the long-term treatment of bipolar disorder. Valproic acid should not or carefully be used as it can affect the risk of developing dementia. With respect to antipsychotics there is no recommendation as more studies are needed to evaluate the long-term consequences.