Keeping It Stable: Bipolar Disorder Medication
Manic depression or bipolar disorder as it is now known, is a debilitating condition to live with. The constant mood swings and rollercoaster symptoms of the disorder can be intolerable for the patient and loved ones alike. Research has now progressed considerably in the treatment of bipolar disorder, and there are now many different options for doctors treating the condition.
In a large percentage of cases, the most common and effective treatment is bipolar disorder medication.
Mood Stabilizers: Only Available On Prescription
The only way to obtain bipolar disorder medication is by prescription from a psychiatrist or other primary care physician. Although general practitioners not specializing in psychiatry can prescribe medications for bipolar disorder, they usually recommend people with the condition see a psychiatrist for their medication.
Medications used to treat bipolar disorder are also known as “mood stabilizers.” They are almost always “long-term” medications. Once a patient with bipolar disorder begins taking medication, they usually continue with treatment for years. Additional medications may also be taken to control acute manic-depressive episodes that occur despite the “mood stabilizers.”
Bipolar Disorder Medication Options
There are several different options when it comes to choosing a treatment for bipolar disorder. The most common bipolar disorder medication is the drug lithium. Over the years, lithium has proven extremely effective in preventing manic-depressive episodes.
Other medications used to control bipolar disorder are from the anticonvulsant family of medications. Drugs such as valproate and carbamazepine, have also proven to be effective at treating episodes of bipolar disorder which are particularly severe. Newer varieties of anticonvulsant medications for bipolar disorder are still being tested today, including lamotrigine and gabapenitine.
The Side Effects of Medication for Bipolar Disorder
Like many other effective medications, there is always a downside. Bipolar disorder medication often results in negative side effects for the user. Depending on the particular medication, the side effects typically include weight gain, reduced sexual drive movement issues, tremor, nausea, anxiety, and dry mouth.
Some medications have side effects which are particular only to children or adolescents with bipolar disorder. Valproate, for example, has been shown to cause hormone changes in girls, and be a potential cause for polycystic ovary syndrome in women under twenty.
Medication for Bipolar Disorder Is Only One Method of Management
Although medication is only one of the ways used to manage bipolar disorder, it has been universally proven to be one of the most effective. Whilst it is certainly not the perfect solution, medication for bipolar disorder takes a big step towards eliminating the condition altogether.
