bipolar disorder or manic-depressive psychosis is a serious chronic disease and frequent, as it affects about 5% of the population, regardless of culture or of the human race. The socio-economic cost it engenders is considerable.

Bipolar disorders are defined by criteria set in the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM IV). There are several types of bipolar disorder, that all involve episodes of depression and mania to a degree, bipolar disorder is a lifelong illness. There are currently several subtypes of bipolar disorder (bipolar disorder, type I), (bipolar disorder, type II), (bipolar disorder, Type III). Different subtypes of the disease bipolar belong to what is now called bipolar spectrum. This distinction is important clinically, because it is necessary for the therapeutic choice.

Newer anticonvulsant medications, including lamotrigine, gabapentin, and topiramate are being studied to determine how well they work in stabilizing mood cycle. Four major mechanisms of action underlying the pharmacological effects of anticonvulsants:

Several anticonvulsant of the last generation are currently being evaluated in the treatment of bipolar disorder. So far, the Lamotrigine is studied as a mood stabilizer and antidepressant. These new treatments may represent a promising alternative for patients resistant to the former mood stabilizer, such as lithium and valproic acid. However, many studies are still needed to determine their effectiveness and their indications.