Psychopharmacologic Treatment Strategies for Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia

This paper presents an updated synopsis for 3 major psychiatric illnesses: major depression, bipolar disorder, & schizophrenia. Current definitions, updated diagnostic criteria, short- & long-term treatment strategies, & special challenges for the clinician are discussed for each illness. New directions in clinical research are also described. Suicidal ideation & behavior are discussed throughout as symptoms, risk indicators, outcomes, & considerations for pharmacotherapy, in these illnesses. (75 refs)