Lithium
One of the features that separates bipolar disorder from other psychiatric conditions is the presence of periods of abnormally high activity and elevated mood, also known as manic episodes. According to the Mayo Clinic, lithium works to help prevent these.
People having a manic episode may have a false feeling of well-being or they may be unusually angry or irritable. Although the exact mechanism by which lithium works is not understood, it is known that it acts on the central nervous system, primarily the brain. Lithium works to prevent the abnormal brain activity that causes mania and, as a result, functions as a mood stabilizer.
Valium
Valium is also known as diazepam. It is commonly used to treat anxiety and can be used to help people suffering from bipolar disorder sleep. Valium is from a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, compounds that work as depressants on the central nervous system, which means they inhibit the stimulation of certain neurons in the brain. When these neurons become overstimulated, they can cause anxiety. Anxiety can be a symptom of a manic episode and, in addition, make it difficult for people suffering from bipolar disorder to sleep.
Side Effects and Contraindications
Neither lithium nor valium should be used by women who are pregnant, as these medications could harm an unborn baby. People with kidney or liver disease should also not take lithium or valium. Valium is potentially habit-forming, so patients with a history of drug or alcohol abuse should not use it. Taking lithium can lead to lithium toxicity, a condition that is marked by nausea, vomiting, excessive sweating, muscle tremors, blurred vision and ringing in the ears (tinnitus). Finally, lithium and valium may slow reactions and cause confusion and decreased alertness, so it is important to be careful when using either (or both medications) when performing actions, such as driving a car.
