UTHealth Bipolar Disorder Program

Program overview:

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a psychiatric condition that causes unusual shifts in mood state, sleep, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. It alternates periods of extremely “up,” elated and energized behavior (manic or hypomanic episodes) with very sad, “down,” or hopeless periods (depressive episodes).

Research indicates that bipolar disorder is difficult to identify. Since the effective treatment for a patient with bipolar disorder is usually quite different from treating other mental health disorders, we strive to provide the most accurate possible diagnostic assessment, with the ultimate goal of offering the appropriate treatments. Early intervention is most effective and improves the prognosis of bipolar disorder.

The mission of the UTHealth Houston Bipolar Disorder Program is to provide innovative, scientific evidence for the diagnosis and treatment of Bipolar Disorder. That includes clinical trials with new, improved therapeutics and multidisciplinary research approaches. Led by Rodrigo Machado-Vieira, MD, PhD, MSc, the Program integrates pharmacological and psychotherapeutic research in Bipolar Disorder and works to define a personalized treatment plan.

Our clinicians are dedicated to improving bipolar patient’s lives. They’re committed to working closely with each patient to develop personalized treatment plans.


Current clinical research studies:

Stem Cells for Treatment Resistant Bipolar Depression

Intranasal Esketamine for Depression

The Endocannabinoid Palmitoylethanolamide for Bipolar Depression

Antidepressant effects of Transcranial direct current stimulation in Bipolar Disorder

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in Bipolar or Unipolar Depression


Research Contacts:

Courtney Vacera – 713-486-2623 – Courtney.Vacera@uth.tmc.edu

Annalee Ellis – 713-486-0140 – Annalee.S.Ellis@uth.tmc.edu


Click here for more information or to schedule an appointment.