[Tapering maintenance treatment for bipolar disorders].

Background: In bipolar disorder (BD) preventive maintenance treatment is the rule, yet the scientific evidence supporting this is limited.

Aim: To argue the need for research into the gradual discontinuation of maintenance treatment for (BD).

Method: A narrative review of evidence regarding the effectiveness of maintenance treatment for (BD), supplemented by exploration of potential reasons behind the predominant reliance on pharmacological interventions.

Results: Evidence for maintenance treatment primarily focuses on clinical effectiveness, while individuals with bipolar disorder may prioritize other outcome measures. Much research on (BD) centers on neurobiological or genetic aspects.

Conclusion: A non-pharmacologic approach for longterm treatment in BD has been understudied. The desire of many individuals with bipolar disorder to managing their vulnerability with minimal (or no) medication necessitates thorough research on who, when, and how maintenance medication can be successfully tapered.