According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, bipolar disorder--also known as manic-depressive disorder--causes serious alterations in a person's mood, thinking and behavior. Dramatic mood swings range from the euphoria and heightened energy of mania to the lows of depression, with feelings of sadness, hopelessness and a loss of interest in or pleasure in most activities. These mood swings are so intense that they interfere with a person's ability to function. Fortunately, several drugs are available to treat bipolar disorder.
Lithium
People suffering from bipolar disorder are usually treated with lithium first. Lithium (Eskalith or Lithobid) was the first mood-stabilizing medication approved for treating both mania and depression. According to Kaplan and Sadock's Comprehensive Textbook of Psychiatry, it is effective in stabilizing mood and preventing the extreme highs and lows of certain categories of bipolar disorder. People taking lithium need to have periodic blood tests, because lithium can cause thyroid and kidney problems. Common side effects include tremor, weight gain and digestive issues.
Anticonvulsants
According to the National Institute of Mental Health's "Mental Health Medications," doctors often prescribe anticonvulsants to stabilize mood swings in bipolar patients. These mood-stabilizing medications include valproic acid (Depakene), divalproex (Depakoate) and lamotrigine (Lamictal). Common side effects, which can vary from person to person, include weight gain, tremor and drowsiness.
Antidepressants
People with bipolar disorder who take antidepressants often take a mood stabilizer too. According to Thase and Sachs, in an article in the September 2000 issue of "Biological Psychiatry," doctors usually require this because in some people, taking only an antidepressant can trigger manic episodes or result in developing rapid cycling symptoms. Fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline (Zoloft) and bupropion (Wellbutrin) are examples of antidepressants doctors may prescribe to treat symptoms of bipolar disorder. The most common side effects include reduced sexual desire and problems reaching orgasm.
Antipsychotics
According to Kaplan and Sadock's Comprehensive Textbook of Psychiatry, antipsychotic medications such as olanzapine (Zyprexa), risperidone (Risperdal) and quetiapine (Seroquel) may benefit people who don't respond to anticonvulsants. Side effects vary with each medication but can include weight gain, sleepiness, tremors, vision problems and sexual side effects. Weight gain is a significant issue in children. Antipsychotic medications may impair memory and attention in some people, and may cause involuntary body or facial movements.
Combination Drugs
Symbyax, a combination of the antidepressant fluoxetine and the antipsychotic olanzapine, helps to alleviate depression and stabilize mood. This medication may also cause side effects similar to those caused by antidepressants.
References
- "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders;" Allen Frances, MD; 2000
- "Comprehensive Textbook of Psychiatry;" Benjamin J. Sadock, M.D.; 2000
- National Institute of Mental Health: What Medications are used to Treat Bipolar D?
- "Biological Psychiatry;" Bipolar Depression: Pharmacotherapy and Related Therapeutic Strategies; M.E.Thase; Sept. 2000
