Bipolar disorder (also known as manic-depression) is a disease in which patients experience periods of unusually high mood and self-esteem (manic episodes) as well as the reverse (depressive episodes). Patients with bipolar II have hypomanic episodes which are milder than full manic phases but still dangerous.
Mood Stabilizers
As the National Institute of Mental Health explains, bipolar II disorder is commonly treated using mood stabilizers. Mood stabilizers are prescription medications that help limit and prevent both manic and depressive phases. Lithium is one of the most commonly prescribed mood stabilizers, though many anticonvulsants (medications that can be used for epilepsy) can be used for bipolar II disorder. Examples of anticonvulsants that can be used for this purpose include valproic acid and lamotrigine.
Antipsychotics
The Mayo Clinic explains that antipsychotic medications can be given for patients who are unable to have their moods stabilized by anticonvulsants. These medications include risperidone, quetiapine and olanzapine. These medications can, however, cause problems with memory, confusion, weight gain and involuntary muscle movements.
Antidepressants
Because bipolar II disorder involves significant depressive phases, many patients benefit from the use of antidepressants. Commonly prescribed antidepressants, according to the National Institute of Mental Health include bupropion, fluoxetine and sertraline. These medications can lead to manic episodes, but are generally safe if combined with a mood stabilizer.
Psychotherapy
Most patients with bipolar II disorder also receive psychotherapy in combination with their medications. There are many different approaches that can be utilized for bipolar patients. Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps patients identify harmful patterns of thought and behavior and teaches them ways to avoid making poor decisions. Interpersonal therapy helps patients develop better relationships with others. Psychoeducation teaches patients about the symptoms of bipolar II disorder and helps them identify signs of a relapse.
Hospitalization
Patients with bipolar II disorder typically do not need to be hospitalized during hypomanic episodes; severe depressive episodes may require hospitalization. Psychiatric treatment given in a hospital setting allows patients to stabilize their mood in a safe environment.
