A randomized, placebo‐controlled proof‐of‐concept trial of adjunctive topiramate for alcohol use disorders in bipolar disorder. Issue 2 (19th February 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sylvia, Louisa G.; Gold, Alexandra K.; Stange, Jonathan P.; Peckham, Andrew D.; Deckersbach, Thilo; Calabrese, Joseph R.; Weiss, Roger D.; Perlis, Roy H.; Nierenberg, Andrew A.; Ostacher, Michael J.
• Is Part Of: American journal on addictions. Volume 25:Issue 2(2016)
• Page Start: 94
• Page End: 98
• Publication Date: 2016-02-19
• Subjects: Substance abuse -- Periodicals; Substance abuse -- Treatment -- Periodicals; 616.86005
• DOI: 10.1111/ajad.12346
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1055-0496

Abstract

Abstract : Background and Objectives: Topiramate is effective for alcohol use disorders (AUDs) among non‐psychiatric patients. We examined topiramate for treating comorbid AUDs in bipolar disorder (BD). Methods: Twelve participants were randomized to topiramate or placebo for 12 weeks. Results: The topiramate group, with two out of five participants (40%) completing treatment, experienced less improvement in drinking patterns than the placebo group, with five out of seven participants (71%) completing treatment. Discussion and Conclusions: Topiramate did not improve drinking behavior and was not well‐tolerated. This study failed to recruit adequately. Problems surrounding high attrition, a small study sample, and missing data preclude interpretation of study findings. Scientific Significance: This is the first randomized, placebo‐controlled trial of topiramate for AUDs in BD. (Am J Addict 2016;25:94–98)