Bipolar Disorder Research

Bipolar disorder, also referred to as manic-depressive illness, is characterized by extreme changes in a person's mood, energy, and functional ability. A long-term, hereditary disorder, it is treatable through a variety of medications and psychotherapy.

Two mood extremes of bipolar disorder are mania and depression. In mania, one of the defining symptoms is an increase in energy and a decreased need for sleep. A person suffering from bipolar disorder will vacillate between manic and depressive states. Different from the average ups and downs that people go through, the symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe and can result in damaged relationships, trouble at work and at school, and even suicide.

In some people, however, symptoms of mania and depression may occur together. Clinicians call this a mixed bipolar state. Symptoms of a mixed state may include trouble sleeping, agitation, significant change in appetite, psychosis, and suicidal thinking. A person suffering from a mixed bipolar episode experience sadness and hopelessness while at the same time feel extremely energized.

Visit our Health Library to find out more about bipolar disorder.

Clinical Trials for Bipolar Disorder

Experts at the Mood and Anxiety Disorders Program at the Mount Sinai School of medicine are conducting studies of investigational medications that may help relieve your depression symptoms. We are seeking individuals who are interested in participating in the following clinical trials.

Minocycline for Bipolar Depression

The Efficacy and Safety of Galantamine for Dysfunction in Bipolar Disorder

To participate in one of our clinical trials for Mood and Anxiety Disorders or to learn more about eligibility, please contact us at 212-241-0961 or e-mail us at MAP@mssm.edu.