Bipolar Affective Disorder [antikvár]

Preface Only two years have passed since the publication of the lst Germán edition of this book. The fact that a Germán new edition is already necessary, and a demand for an English translation, illustrates the great interest in the field of bipolar disorders and, especially, in this book. Furthermore, the fact that a major revision was required demonstrates the rapid scientifíc advances in research on the underlying causes and therapeutic possibilities for the disease. Thus, for example, somé therapy regimens designated as experimentál in the lst Germán edition, e.g., lamotrigine, have now been scientifically substantiated. In addition, the group of atypical antipsychotic agents such as olanzapine has opened new therapeutic options. Other agents, praised as promising candidates just two years ago, for example, gabapentin, have not fulfilled their expectations in controlled studies. It is clear that the treatment of bipolar disorders is undergoing changes. This is alsó true for the non-drug treatment modalities such as, for example, transcranial magnetic stimulation and, above all, psychotherapy. Here alsó scientifíc results on their efficacies are to be expected soon. Thus, it can almost certainly be predicted that a further revision will be needed within a few years. Until then, however, it is hoped that the present book will enjoy a similar success as the lst Germán edition. Munich, Spring 2000Prof. Dr. H.-J. Möller Director Psychiatric Clinic Ludwig-Maximilian University Munich