Participants in a recent study of bipolar disorder patients, who experienced manic symptoms while also suffering from depression, did not benefit from antidepressant medication when it was given in addition to a mood stabilizer. A second study also indicated that a mood stabilizer alone appeared to be just as effective as when it was given along with an antidepressant. 

In a 3 month follow-up those who received only the mood stabilizer faired better than those who were given both the mood stabilizer plus an anti-depressant.

The patients who received intensive psychotherapy in addition to medication reported better life satisfaction and better relationship skills than those who received only brief therapy and medication. When it came to work functioning both groups fared the same.