Lurasidone in Therapy of Treatment-resistant Ultra-rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder: Case Report

Lurasidone is an atypical antipsychotic approved for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar depression. It seems to have a favorable metabolic profile and low risk of causing adverse interactions. Here we present a case of a 25-year old female patient with treatment-resistant ultra-rapid cycling bipolar disorder, obesity, hypothyroidism, and epilepsy. Because of predominant depressive symptoms, occasional occurrence of brief psychotic symptoms and patient’s somatic comorbidities, treatment with lurasidone was initiated. Clinical improvement was observed 3 weeks and cessation of ultra-rapid cycling course of the disease 8 weeks after the beginning of lurasidone treatment. The patient’s level of functioning improved and body mass significantly decreased, with good tolerance of the pharmacotherapy. Lurasidone seems to be a promising treatment option in patients with treatment-resistant rapid cycling bipolar disorder.