Ceftriaxone in the Management of Bipolar Depression

Modulation of Glutamatergic Neurotransmission in the Treatment of Bipolar Depression

We aim to study the efficacy of intravenous ceftriaxone in a four-week, inpatient, placebo-controlled, double-blind study, as an augmentation therapy in patients with bipolar disorder, currently depressed, who have failed to respond to conventional treatments.

Inclusion Criteria:

• DSM-IV diagnosis of bipolar disorder
• Presence of a current major depressive episode on the SCID
• Score of 17 or greater on the HDRS
• Failure to respond to two previous medication trials
• Capable of giving voluntary written consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Hypersensitivity to penicillin or cephalosporin, resulting in anaphylaxis
• Significant current substance dependence/abuse within 3 months preceding the trial
• Significant history of intravenous drug abuse
• Active suicidal ideation
• Pregnant/lactating mothers
• Significant medical history
• Patients on anticoagulation treatment
• Patients who test positive for HIV or Hep B or C