Living with bipolar disorder means dealing with mood swings that can feel like they’re controlling your life. One week, you may struggle to get out of bed. The next one, you might be full of energy or making reckless decisions.
While treatment for bipolar disorder is multifaceted, medication is often a core component. Finding the right medicine takes time, patience, and, sometimes, trial and error. This guide provides an overview of what you should know about the medications doctors prescribe for bipolar disorder.
Types of Medication for Bipolar Disorder
Doctors use several types of medical treatments when treating different forms of this mental health condition. These may be used alone or as a combination of multiple types.
Bipolar Disorder Mood Stabilizers
Mood stabilizers are usually the first medicine a psychiatrist will prescribe because they target the core issue: extreme mood fluctuations. It can take a few weeks to see results and requires consistency. This category of medication splits even further:
Lithium treatment has been around for decades, signifying its efficacy. It changes the way brain cells send signals to one another. Doctors prescribe regular blood tests to monitor lithium levels and ensure the dose stays in a safe range. Many people take lithium for years with good results.
Anticonvulsants originally treated epilepsy. Medical professionals noticed they also stabilized mood in people with bipolar disorder. Later, anticonvulsants became FDA-approved for bipolar disorder. These include:
- Valproic acid (Depakote): Eases manic episodes and prevents rapid cycling between highs and lows
- Lamotrigine (Lamictal): Manages bipolar depression. It won’t push you into mania like some antidepressants can
- Carbamazepine (Tegretol): A backup option when lithium isn’t effective
Atypical Antipsychotics
Aside from treating psychosis, these are typical medical supports for managing mania and preventing future episodes. Options include:
- Quetiapine (Seroquel): Tackles manic highs and depressive lows
- Olanzapine (Zyprexa): Acts fast when you’re in a severe manic state
- Aripiprazole (Abilify): Works on dopamine receptors to keep things balanced
- Lurasidone (Latuda): Designed specifically for bipolar depression
Antidepressants for Bipolar Depression
Taking an antidepressant by itself when you have bipolar disorder can lead to a manic episode. This emphasizes the need for medical advice. Doctors often avoid prescribing them on their own, rather pairing an antidepressant with a mood stabilizer.
Common Side Effects to Watch For
| Medication Type | Common Side Effects | What to Monitor |
| Lithium | Increased thirst, weight gain, hand tremors | Blood levels every few months, kidney/thyroid function |
| Valproic Acid | Drowsiness, weight gain, digestive issues | Liver function, blood cell counts |
| Lamotrigine | Dizziness, headaches, potential rash | Any skin changes (report urgently) |
| Carbamazepine | Drowsiness, dizziness, nausea | Blood counts, liver function |
| Atypical Antipsychotics | Weight gain, drowsiness, increased appetite | Weight, blood sugar, cholesterol levels |
Most side effects lessen over time or can be managed with dose adjustments. Never stop taking medication without talking to your doctor first; sudden changes can trigger episodes.
How Therapy Enhances Bipolar Meds Treatment
Medication handles the brain chemistry side of mood stabilization. But it doesn’t teach you what to do when you feel an episode coming on. That’s where therapy comes in.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps you recognize the thought patterns that worsen episodes. It gives you tools to challenge intrusive thoughts.
- Dialectical behavior therapy focuses on managing intense emotions in a safe way. You learn practical tools to regulate these healthily.
- Family therapy helps your loved ones understand what you’re going through. It also rebuilds connections and strengthens trust.
- Group therapy helps you realize you’re not alone. Connecting with others in similar situations establishes motivation and support.
Combined care helps prevent relapses and dangerous lows, implementing holistic safeguards for lasting wellness.
Finding the Right Medication for You
While each medication has its clear pros and cons, each person responds to them differently. To ensure the most suitable course, your psychiatrist will likely try several options before landing on what works.
Tip: Keep a journal tracking your mood, sleep, and side effects. This information helps your doctor make better decisions about adjustments.
Getting Started With Treatment
If you’re struggling, professional bipolar disorder treatment makes a meaningful change. Our programs don’t merely hand you a prescription. We offer structured therapy, personalized to your needs and goals.
At Rebuilding Mental Health in Easton, MA, you’ll work with clinicians who manage medications and teach mood management skills. Consistent sleep schedules, avoiding alcohol, and taking medications on schedule all support your treatment. Call 781-806-3008 or verify your insurance to start your renewed path.
