SUPPLEMENTING WITH DEXTROMETHORPHAN MAY ENHANCE COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS IN YOUNG INDIVIDUALS WITH BIPOLAR DISORDERS

Abstract Background Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic, debilitating mental condition with consistent prevalence across genders and ethnicities. It's marked by high relapse rates, mood swings, and disruptions in various life aspects. Prior research has highlighted neuropsychological impairments in BD. Aims & Objectives This study investigates the therapeutic effect of dextromethorphan (DM), an open- label drug, and its influence on different age groups' neuropsychological functions in BD patients. Methods We recruited 92 BD patients, with 55.1% males. In a 12-week, randomized, double-blind study, we assigned patients to one of three groups: 29 on valproic acid (VPA) plus either placebo (VPA+P) or 63 with DM (30 mg per day or 60mg per day). We evaluated symptom severity using the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS). Patients completed neuropsychological tasks at baseline and after the 12-week trial: the Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS) and the Continuous Performance Test (CPT). We also recorded clinical characteristics. Results Patients showed overall improvement in all neuropsychological functions after the 12-week trial. Subgrouping patients by age, the younger group (YG, younger than 39 years old) responded more positively to DM treatment, while the middle-old group (MOG, older than 40 years) exhibited less pronounced effects. Discussion & Conclusion This study provides valuable insights into DM's therapeutic effect, aligning with previous research. Age played a role in the therapeutic response, particularly among younger BD patients. Early treatment may yield better neuropsychological outcomes. To comprehensively capture neuroplasticity and therapeutic impact, especially on memory indices of WMS-III, we recommend future longitudinal studies. These would shed light on the long-term impact of age on BD patients' multifaceted functions.