Homoeopathy in bipolar affective disorder

Abstract

Background: Bipolar affective disorder (BPAD) is an episodic, chronic psychiatric disorder characterized by fluctuations in mood state and energy. It affects more than 1% of the world’s population. BPAD causes cognitive and functional impairment and raised mortality, particularly death by suicide. At present, although alternative therapies are not the first-line treatment of mood disorders, there is emerging evidence showing that such treatments are effective. Objective: The objective of this review is to synthesize existing research evidence and literature to determine the usefulness of homoeopathic medicines in the management of manic and depressive episodes of BPAD. Materials and Methods: Two authors performed the review processes independently. Articles published on BPAD between 2000 and 2022 in the English language in various peer-reviewed journals were included in the review. A comprehensive search using keywords was done in electronic databases, such as PubMed and Science Direct. The rubrics in the synthesis repertory corresponding to the diagnostic criteria as per the 10th revision of the International Classification of Diseases for Mania and Depression were repertorised to arrive at a group of homoeopathic medicines and their indications are discussed in detail. Results: A total of three articles were identified on BPAD and Homoeopathy. The most probable medicines indicated for the manic episode were Agaricus muscarius, Anacardium, Belladonna, Hyoscyamus, Lachesis, Stramonium, Tarantula hispanica and Veratrum album. Conclusion: There is a scarcity of literature to draw any conclusion on the role of Homoeopathy in BPAD. Prospective, controlled trials are necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of homoeopathic medicines in the management of BPAD.