Outhoff, Kim2017-06-222017-06-222016-05Outhoff, K 2016, 'Evidence that changes the way you practice bipolar disorder : mania and depression explained', South African Family Practice, vol. 58, no. 3, pp. 14-16.2078-6190 (print)2078-6204 (online)http://hdl.handle.net/2263/61062Bipolar Disorder (BD) is characterised by alternating discrete episodes of depression and mania. Rational pharmacotherapy necessitates an appreciation of these different phases and of the possible underlying pathophysiology. A greater understanding of the pathogenesis of BD has boosted awareness of how anti-bipolar drugs work, and vice versa. This bidirectional relationship has amplified knowledge in both disciplines.en© 2016 The Author(s). Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons License [CC BY-NC-ND 4.0].DepressionManiaPathophysiologyBipolar disorder (BD)Article