Bipolar disorder, commonly known as manic-depressive disorder, refers to a psychiatric disorder associated with such symptoms as poor judgment, risky behavior, agitation, an increased sex drive and sadness. Additional symptoms of bipolar disorder include hopelessness, difficulty concentrating and irritability. Fortunately, common drugs that help bipolar disease exist.
Lithium
Lithium, typically sold as Eskalith or Lithobid, is a medication that belongs to a class of medications known as antimanic agents. It reduces brain activity so that bipolar disease symptoms decrease. MedlinePlus indicates that lithium's less serious side effects include indigestion, a loss of appetite, constipation, weight gain, acne and hair loss. Some of lithium's serious side effects include frequent urination, muscle weakness, seizures, slurred speech, visual changes, ringing in the ears and vomiting. It is important to notify a physician when lithium leads to these effects. Taking such medications as quinapril, valsartan, indomethacin or piroxicam may require a decrease in lithium's dose. Lithium is a capsule, liquid or tablet taken two to three times daily.
Lamotrigine
Lamotrigine, commonly sold as Lamictal, is an anticonvulsant medication that also decreases activity within the brain. It treats bipolar disorder, epilepsy and other seizure disorders. Drugs.com says that lamotrigine's common side effects include double vision, a skin rash and unsteadiness. Some of lamotrigine's serious but rare side effects include muscle cramps or muscle weakness, yellowing of the skin or eyes, difficulty breathing, memory loss and a fever. It is important to talk to a doctor when lamotrigine causes these effects. Suffering from lamotrigine, kidney or liver disease or depression may require a decrease in lamotrigine's dose. Lamotrigine is a tablet taken daily or as prescribed.
Olanzapine
Olanzapine, commonly sold as Zyprexa, refers to a class of medicines known as antipsychotic medications. This medication alters the amount of chemicals within the brain. Drugs.com says that olanzapine also treats schizophrenia. Some of olanzapine's less serious side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, a decreased sex drive and swelling of the feet or hands. Some of olanzapine's serious side effects include sweating, confusion, stomach pain, a loss of appetite, body aches and decreased urination. It is important to phone a doctor when olanzapine leads to these effects. Suffering from seizures, epilepsy, diabetes, high cholesterol and trouble swallowing may require a decrease in olanzapine's dose. Olanzapine is a tablet taken taken daily or as prescribed.
