High-Risk Medicines Preceding Fatal Poisonings in Bipolar Disorder

This nationwide Finnish case-control study quantifies which prescription classes cluster before fatal poisonings in bipolar disorder and, notably, which mood stabilizers do not.

📅 Journal publication: Oct 2026 · Last updated: Oct 7, 2026

tricyclic antidepressantsgabapentinoidsopioidsbenzodiazepinesZ-drugsantipsychoticslithiumvalproatecarbamazepinebipolar disorderfatal poisoningoverdosesuicidecase-control studypharmacoepidemiology Behavioral Health / Addiction Medicine

Background Information

Medicine choices significantly impact fatal poisoning risk in bipolar disorder.

Understanding medication-related risks in bipolar disorder is crucial for preventing fatal poisonings. Tricyclic antidepressants, gabapentinoids, opioids, benzodiazepines, Z-drugs, and antipsychotics showed a higher association with fatal poisonings, with adjusted odds ratios ranging from 1.94 to 3.07. This study highlights the need for cautious prescribing of these medications to individuals with bipolar disorder at risk of poisoning, considering both therapeutic benefits and potential fatality risks. Prescribers should be vigilant about poisoning risks when managing medication in bipolar disorder.

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Authors: Salmelainen J, Tiihonen M, Taipale H, Lieslehto J, Tanskanen A, Tiihonen J, Hamina A

Citation: Salmelainen J, Tiihonen M, Taipale H, et al. Medicine Use Preceding Fatal Poisonings Among Individuals With Bipolar Disorder. Basic & clinical pharmacology & toxicology. 2026;139(4):e70305. doi:10.1111/bcpt.70305

Article Links: PubMed · Journal / DOI · Free Full Text (PMC)

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