OBJECTIVE:

To test the hypothesis that, although typical neuroleptics are commonly used in the treatment of bipolar disorder, newer atypical antipsychotic agents, like risperidone, may be more effective and better-tolerated.

METHOD:

The effectiveness of risperidone was evaluated in 14 outpatients with bipolar disorder, type I, who received risperidone for 6.4 +/- 2.7 weeks at 2.75 +/- 1.8 mg/day.

RESULTS:

Nine (64%) patients were much improved based on Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scores, and mean Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scores improved from 48.2 +/- 4.9 to 58.8 +/- 7.3 (t = 4.49, P = 0.0006, paired t test). Treatment was well tolerated, and no patient experienced worsening of mood symptoms while receiving risperidone.

CONCLUSION:

This open series suggests risperidone is beneficial in the treatment of outpatients with bipolar disorder.