The network meta-analysis summarized on the slide identified 39 randomized studies that compared pharmacotherapy plus a control intervention (e.g., treatment as usual), with pharmacotherapy plus a manualized psychotherapy (including cognitive–behavioural therapy, family or conjoint therapy, interpersonal therapy, or psychoeducational therapy).3 The analysis found evidence in favour of many different psychotherapies, when used in conjunction with pharmacotherapy, for the treatment of bipolar disorder compared to treatment as usual.3 The authors note that this evidence is broadly in line with treatment guidelines that recommend adjunctive psychotherapy in patients with bipolar disorder.3
References:
1. Rabelo JL, Cruz BF, Ferreira JDR, Viana BM, Barbosa IG. Psychoeducation in bipolar disorder: a systematic review. World J Psychiatry 2021; 11 (12): 1407–1424.
2. Oud M, Mayo-Wilson E, Braidwood R, et al. Psychological interventions for adults with bipolar disorder: systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Psychiatry 2016; 208 (3): 213–222.
3. Miklowitz DJ, Efthimiou O, Furukawa TA, et al. Adjunctive psychotherapy for bipolar disorder: a systematic review and component network meta-analysis. JAMA Psychiatry 2021; 78 (2): 141–150.