Aug 18 2007
Making People Fell Better: Medications for Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a very difficult condition to live with. The ups and downs of the disorder can be almost unbearable, not only for the patient, but for their loved ones as well. Doctors have come a long way in treating bipolar disorder, and now there are many different options for addressing the condition. The most common, and usually the most effective, way is the use of bipolar disorder medications.
Mood Stabilizer: Prescription Only
The only way to obtain bipolar disorder medications is if they are prescribed by a psychiatrist or other primary care physicians. Although doctors not specialized in psychiatry have the ability to prescribe medications for bipolar disorder, it is usually suggested that people with the condition see a psychiatrist to obtain medication.
Medications used to treat bipolar disorder are also known as “mood stabilizers.” Once a patient with bipolar disorder begins taking medication, they usually continue with treatment for years. Other medications might be taken at certain times as well in order to treat manic-depressive episodes that occur despite the “mood stabilizers.”
Different Types of Bipolar Disorder Medication
There are several different options when it comes to choosing a treatment for bipolar disorder. The most traditional type of bipolar disorder medication is the drug lithium. Lithium has proven to be extremely effective in preventing manic-depressive episodes.
Other medications used to control bipolar disorder are known as anticonvulsant medications. This includes drugs such as valproate and carbamazepine, which have proven to be effective at treating particularly difficult episodes of bipolar disorder. Anticonvulsant medications for bipolar disorder are still being tested today; some of the newer varieties include lamotrigine and gabapenitine.
Side Effects of Medication for Bipolar Disorder
Like any other drugs, bipolar disorder medications often result in negative side effects for the user. Though the side effects depend on the medication, they typically include weight gain, tremor, movement problems, nausea, anxiety, dry mouth, and reduced sexual drive.
Some medications have side effects particularly when used to treat children or adolescents with bipolar disorder. Valproate, for example, has shown in some studies to cause hormone changes in girls, and to potentially cause polycystic ovary syndrome in women under twenty.
One Method of Management
Although medication is only one way used to manage bipolar disorder, it has proven to be one of the most effective. It is not the perfect solution, but it is one step closer towards eliminating the condition once and for all.
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