Citation

Kaufman KR, Struck PJ. Epilepsy Behav. 2011; 20(2): 386-389.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.yebeh.2010.11.014

PMID

21189229

Abstract

Antiepileptic drugs are effective psychotropics, especially for bipolar disorder, which leads to their use off-label in treatment-refractory cases. A recent publication suggests that rufinamide may be beneficial adjunctively for bipolar disorder with comorbid psychopathology. This report addresses two negative cases with significant psychiatric adverse effects: increased depression, agitation, and activation of suicidal ideation. These findings suggest that adjunctive rufinamide may lead to increased suicidal ideation in patients with treatment-refractory bipolar disorder. Secondary to the course of severe bipolar disorder, rufinamide cannot be specifically implicated; however, clinicians should be aware of this potential significant adverse effect and monitor high-risk patients. Further studies are required to address rufinamide treatment efficacy and severity of adverse effects in patients with bipolar disorder.

Language: en

Keywords

Humans; Adult; Female; Suicide, Attempted; Electroconvulsive Therapy; Bipolar Disorder; Anticonvulsants; Triazoles