This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Intervention). The objectives are as follows:

1. To determine the efficacy of oxcarbazepine compared to placebo or an alternative drug:
1.1 in alleviating manic symptoms episodes of bipolar disorder.
1.2 in alleviating mixed affective symptoms in acute episodes of bipolar disorder.
1.3 in alleviating depressive symptoms in acute episodes of bipolar disorder.

2. To review the acceptability of treatment with oxcarbazepine to patients, measured by numbers and reasons for dropping out of trials, compliance, and by reference to patients' expressed views regarding treatment.

3. To investigate the adverse effects of oxcarbazepine treatment including the general prevalence of adverse effects. Specified unwanted effects will be studied.

4. To determine the overall mortality rates on oxcarbazepine treatment