This study aimed to quantify treatment goals for the pharmacological management of Bipolar I disorder (BP-I) in adults in the US and identify if subgroups with similar treatment priorities exist. Participants, all with a self-reported diagnosis of BP-I, were surveyed between August and September 2021 using a best-worst scaling (BWS) approach to assess the importance of 16 treatment goals. The survey revealed that the top treatment goals for individuals with BP-I were reducing impulsivity, anger, or irritability, and being able to feel pleasure or happiness. Goals focused on reducing medication-related adverse events or dependence on others were considered less important.

The results also identified two subgroups of individuals based on their treatment priorities. One subgroup (n=111) emphasized symptom-focused goals, such as reducing the frequency of mania and depression episodes. The other subgroup (n=144) prioritized goals related to social functioning, like maintaining relationships with partners and family. Overall, the study found that people with BP-I tended to prioritize emotional improvements, and subgroups with distinct preferences for symptom control or social engagement emerged.

Reference: Bridges JFP, Goldberg JF, Fitzgerald HM, et al. Prioritizing Treatment Goals of People Diagnosed with Bipolar I Disorder in the US: Best-Worst Scaling Results. Patient Prefer Adherence. 2023 Oct 12;17:2545-2555. doi: 10.2147/PPA.S419143. PMID: 37849618; PMCID: PMC10578617.