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VOL. 10, ISSUE 2 (2025)
A long-term case of bipolar affective disorder in a 61-year-old male: Challenges in medication adherence and treatment response
Authors
Dr. Narendra Bc, Dr. Poonam M
Abstract
Bipolar affective disorder (BD) is a chronic
psychiatric illness characterized by recurrent episodes of mania and
depression. Long-term management is often complicated by poor medication
adherence, treatment side effects, and comorbid medical illnesses. We report a
case of a 61-year-old male with a 40-year history of BD, hypertension, and type
2 diabetes mellitus, whose illness course was marked by frequent relapses
related to poor medication adherence. Early years were characterized by
frequent manic episodes, reduced with pharmacotherapy and electroconvulsive
therapy (ECT). Later, Olanzapine and Valproate provided partial stability but
adherence remained inconsistent. High-dose Olanzapine (40 mg/day) yielded
improved control but required close monitoring for adverse effects. ECT was
beneficial in treatment-resistant phases but not sufficient without
pharmacotherapy. Comorbidities and side effects complicated long-term
management, highlighting the need for individualized dosing and a
multidisciplinary approach. Sustained treatment adherence, proactive side
effect management, and holistic care addressing both psychiatric and physical
health are essential for long-term stability in BD.
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Pages:5-6
How to cite this article:
Dr. Narendra Bc, Dr. Poonam M "A long-term case of bipolar affective disorder in a 61-year-old male: Challenges in medication adherence and treatment response". International Journal of Medicine Research, Vol 10, Issue 2, 2025, Pages 5-6
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