In some patients, cannabis use can complicate the management of bipolar disorder by causing mood instability and psychosis. Other patients believe it helps manage their moods.
Eligibility criteria employed in clinical trials assessing pharmacologic treatment of bipolar disorder typically preclude many affected patients, casting doubt about the generalizability of their results.
Bipolar disorder is often comorbid with substance use disorders, with alcohol being the top substance. Clinicians should take a thorough history to uncover substance use disorder because it will guide the management of both disorders.