Pharmacological treatment of bipolar disorder in pregnancy

Abstract

Pregnancy in women with bipolar disorder (BD) can be considered a high-risk pregnancy in view of several clinical and pharmacotherapeutic considerations. Pharmacological treatment during pregnancy requires a careful weighing of psychotropic drug exposure against the risk of BD relapse. An untreated bipolar illness can negatively affect the health of mother as well as unborn child in the event of a relapse. Availability of well balanced, latest information on safety of prophylactic drugs for BD is crucial for making informed decisions. The review provides an evidence-based update (2015–2021) on the drug safety considerations involved in providing care for women with BD who are either pregnant or planning to conceive in near future. Literature review based on systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and data available from studies based on large-scale cohorts and birth registries has been synthesized and presented along with clinically relevant recommendations.