Bipolar disorder is a condition that affects a person's mood. It is characterized by periods of mania, followed by periods of depression, and in some cases, mixed episodes. According to the National Institutes of Health, these fluctuations in mood make it difficult to function normally in daily life. A variety of medications exist to treat bipolar, but what works the best for one patient may not work for another. Some drugs are more commonly used than others.
Lithium
Lithium is classified as a mood stabilizer, or antimanic, and is prescribed most frequently for those suffering from manic episodes. According to psychologyinfo.com, this drug is commonly used in the ongoing treatment of bipolar disorder treating not only mania, but the depression that develops before and after a manic episode. Because it may take 5 to 14 days for lithium to begin working, an antipsychotic drug may be prescribed first to help manage symptoms. In some cases, an antidepressant is used in conjunction with lithium to increase the effectiveness the treatment.
Valproic Acid
According to HelpGuide.org, valproic acid (brand name Depakote), is a good choice for those who cannot tolerate lithium. It is an anticonvulsant drug typically used to treat seizures, though it is also effective in the treatment of mixed episodes, or episodes of mania which are accompanied by hallucinations or delusions. HelpGuide.org states that it is often the first drug choice for people suffering from these specific symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Ariprazole
One of many antipsychotics, ariprazole is helpful for those who lose their sense of reality while experiencing a manic or depressive episode. While generally combined with mood stabilizers for more effective treatment, in some cases, ariprazole may be prescribed alone if mood stabilizers have proven unsuccessful.
Xanax
Xanax belongs to a family of drugs known as benzodiazepines. It is effective at relieving anxiety, agitation and insomnia. Because of its addictive tendencies, most doctors prescribe it short-term to bridge the gap until a mood stabilizer or antipsychotic can begin working.
