Certain antipsychotics can help alleviate some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Usually, the dose of the antipsychotic determines if the medication will be helpful in helping bipolar individuals. The most popular antipsychotics effective in alleviating symptoms of bipolar disorder are Abilify, Seroquel XR, Risperdal and Geodon.
Abilify
Abilify is a medication that can be used for depression, bipolar disorder or as an antipsychotic, depending on the dose. To treat bipolar disorder, the typical dose is 10, 15 or 20 mg, according to Abilify.com, and it can be used for long-term maintenance of bipolar disorder. This medication can help with manic symptoms, stabilize mood and reduce the risk of manic relapse. Abilify adjusts the chemicals in the brain called dopamine and serotonin and can be used for adults and children, ages 10 to 17. Symptoms typically improve in most patients within a few days. Common side effects include weight gain, increased risk of stroke, high fever, tardive dyskinesia, an increase in blood sugar levels, light-headedness and nausea, the company reports.
Seroquel XR
Seroquel XR is another antipsychotic used to help alleviate some symptoms of bipolar disorder. According to Seroquel.com, it is to be taken four hours before bedtime. The common doses to help with bipolar disorder are from 300 to 800 mg. Seroquel is approved to treat mania, mixed episodes and depression. It is especially helpful in treating depression relating to bipolar disorder. The company reports that there are several side effects to Seroquel, including high blood sugar, diabetes, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, increases in bad cholesterol and deceases in good cholesterol, weight gain, drowsiness, increased blood pressure and dizziness when standing up.
Risperdal
Risperdal is a common atypical antipsychotic used for treating the manic symptoms of bipolar disorder, Risperdal.com reports. The typical dose of Risperdal for a bipolar individual is 2 to 5 mg. Similar to Abilify, Risperdal adjusts the chemicals in the brain called serotonin and dopamine. The company reports that the drug's common side effects include anxiety, drowsiness, increased appetite, indigestion, restlessness and trouble sleeping.
Geodon
Geodon is considered an atypical antipsychotic. However, in clinical trials, it has prevented the return of bipolar episodes in the long run when combined with a mood stabilizer such as Lithium, according to Geodon.com. It also can have the short-term effect of improving manic symptoms in patients with acute manic or mixed episodes. The typical dose of Geodon for bipolar disorder is 60 to 80 mg. Common side effects include an increase in blood sugar levels, light-headedness, drowsiness, seizures, dizziness, constipation, restlessness, abnormal muscle movements and diarrhea.
