Comparative efficacy and tolerability for Sodium Valproate, Lamortigine and Topiramate used as preventive therapy for bipolar and schizoaffective disorders
The goal of this open comparative investigation was to study preventive efficacy and tolerability for Sodium Valproate, Lamortigine and Topiramate used in the treatment of bipolar (F31) and schizoaffective (F25) disorders. Material: 90 patients, which were divided into three therapeutic groups (29, 30 and 31 patients). Topiramate in general happened to be less effective than other medical drugs investigated: the percentage of dropouts was higher, the average period for interrupting medication was shorter and the percentage of responders was lower. Sodium Valproate and Topiramate were superior to Lamotrigine in reduction of manic symptoms though Lamotrigine was better in decreasing the severity of depressive symptoms. Topiramate influenced both manic and depressive symptoms, though its effect was less obvious than that of Sodium Valproate and Lamotrigine. The highest rates of side effects were found in the group treated with Topiramate. The most difficult to stand were cognitive side effects i.e. concentration and memory problems. In the group treated with Sodium Valproate dyspepsia and rash were the reason for patients to stop medication. Lamotrigine was the best tolerated medication though it also produced side-effects like diarrhea and rash.