Taurine & Bipolar

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness that requires medication. The standard medications used to treat bipolar disorders are antipsychotics, mood stabilizers and benzodiazepines. Mood stabilizers are the most prescribed medication for treatment of bipolar disorder. According to Helpguide.org, common side effects of mood stabilizers are weight gain, weakness and stomach pain. Researchers are exploring supplements to aid in treatment of bipolar disorder, such as taurine. Do not use supplements without consulting your doctor first, as many of them can have adverse effects.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a disorder that is characterized by shifts in energy, mood and ability to perform tasks. The mood swings are characterized as manic episodes and depressive episodes. The severity and symptoms of bipolar disorder are different in each patient. Symptoms lead to loss of jobs, damaged relationships and high risk of suicide. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, bipolar disorders develop in late teens and early adults and at least one-half of the reported cases start before the age of 25. There is no cure for bipolar disorder; symptoms can still occur with treatment. It is common to use therapy, supplements and healthy living to promote a reduction in symptoms.

Taurine

Taurine is an amino acid, found naturally in fish, meats and breast milk. It is used in energy drinks mixed with caffeine to improve energy, concentration and athletic performance. According to MayoClinic.com, taurine supports neurological development; it helps regulate water, mineral and salt levels in the blood. Taurine can be used to aid in treatment of seizures and helps the liver produce bile to break down fats in the small intestine.

Taurine Research

A study of taurine supplements effects in adolescents with bipolar disorder by Stanley Medical Research Institute and Mclean Hospital in 2006, found that after four months, taurine effectively reduced symptoms of mania in the patients. "Bipolar Disorder for Dummies," authored by medical doctor Candida Fink and Joe Kraynak also supports research that taurine is an effective anti-mania supplement. No research has proven that taurine should replace standard medication; consult your doctor before considering using taurine as a treatment option.

Considerations

Several studies have shown taurine is an effective treatment for manic episodes. There is limited evidence it is effective in treating depressive episodes with bipolar patients. Taurine does not have serious side effects in recommended doses. Certified nutritionist Phyllis A. Balch wrote in her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing", that amino acids such as taurine should be taken twice a day on an empty stomach following the guidelines of the supplement. Always consult your doctor before using taurine or other supplements to aid your treatment of bipolar disorder.