The modules are delivered in four 15-minute units and are specifically designed for the busy pharmacist to allow flexibility in what and when they access the information.
This month’s module deals with bipolar disorder and is presented by Dr Chris Alderman.
Dr Alderman points out that atypical antipsychotics were medications that were initially developed for the treatment of psychosis, in general, and schizophrenia.
“These are now used increasingly in the treatment of bipolar disease,” Dr Alderman said.
“Medications such as olanzapine, quetiapine, and risperidone have become important tools for the clinician in helping to stabilise acutely ill bipolar patients and preventing them from becoming ill again.
“These medications may have efficacy beyond being simply antimanic agents and may be true mood stabilisers, as they may actually help prevent mood fluctuations that interfere with social and occupational functioning.”
In this one hour podcast/online lecture, Dr Chris Alderman provides an overview of bipolar disorder and addresses the management options available.
Upon completion of this module, pharmacists should be able to:
• Understand key features of bipolar disorder
• Describe the general principles of pharmacological management of bipolar disorder
• Identify specific roles for various drugs in management of mania and bipolar depression
• Understand principles of mood stabiliser treatment
• Discuss recent advances in knowledge relevant to management of bipolar disorder
Source:
Pharmaceutical Society of Australia