Objective:The Korean College of Neuropsychopharmacology and the Korean Academy of Schizophrenia developed the Korean algorithm project for bipolar disorder to aid clinical decisions. The purpose of this study was to assess the treatment response and the tolerability in the feasibility testing of Korean Medication Algorithm for Bipolar Disorder (KMAP-BP) in clinical settings.
Methods:A total of 126 bipolar patients were enrolled at 17 centers. Among them, 92 patients were treated according to the algorithm. All subjects were assessed over a 4-month period. Prescribing investigators were able to change the recommended treatment strategies of the algorithm if necessary.
Results:Most patients showed significant decreases (p<0.001) in symptoms measured by the Young Mania Rating Scale and the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale for Depression at both assessment point 1 (about 2 weeks) and 4 months. No significant changes in adverse events were noted between baseline and endpoint.
Conclusion:These results suggest that the treatment based on KMAP-BP can be effective and well tolerated in clinical practices. Further research is planned to revise KMAP-BP.