| Lithium (Carbolith, Duralith, Lithobid, Lithizine, Eskalith, Lithane) is one of the standard mood stabilizing drugs for bipolar disorder. Lithium is extremely helpful for most patients and it significantly reduces the rate of hospitalizations in bipolar disorder. Some studies report the following advantages of lithium: •Lithium is effective in 60 - 80% of all hypomanic and manic episodes. (Valproate may be better in patients with multiple manic episodes, mixed episodes, and rapid cycling.) •It helps to prevent relapses. •It helps psychosocial functioning. •It may help reduce the risk for suicide regardless of its effects on stabilizing mood. •It works well for most patients even if they have discontinued taking it and wish to restart treatment. Source: http://www.umm.edu/patiented/articles/what_psychologic_lifestyle_approaches_bipolar_disorder_000066_9.html |
Antiseizure drugs, also called anti-epileptics or anticonvulsants
•Valproate (Depakote, Stavzor), also called valproic acid or divalproex,
•Lamotrigine (Lamictal)
•Carbamazepine (Epitol, Tegretol),
An extended release form of carbamazepine (Equetro) is also available.
oxcarbazepine (Trileptal), is similar to carbamazepine
Other anti-seizure drugs used or investigated for bipolar include
gabapentin (Neurontin) zonisamide (Zonegran)
topiramate (Topamax)
•Valproate (Depakote, Stavzor), also called valproic acid or divalproex,
•Lamotrigine (Lamictal)
•Carbamazepine (Epitol, Tegretol),
An extended release form of carbamazepine (Equetro) is also available.
oxcarbazepine (Trileptal), is similar to carbamazepine
Other anti-seizure drugs used or investigated for bipolar include
gabapentin (Neurontin) zonisamide (Zonegran)
topiramate (Topamax)
Antipsychotic medications for bipolar disorder
Olanzapine (Zyprexa)
Quetiapine (Seroquel)
Risperidone (Risperdal)
Ariprazole (Abilify)
Ziprasidone (Geodon)
Clozapine (Clozaril
Symbyax
Other medications for bipolar disorder
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are a type of medication known as tranquilizers. Benzodiazepines act on the central nervous system, produce sedation and muscle relaxation, and lower anxiety levels.
Sources: http://helpguide.org/mental/bipolar_disorder_medications.html
Olanzapine (Zyprexa)
Quetiapine (Seroquel)
Risperidone (Risperdal)
Ariprazole (Abilify)
Ziprasidone (Geodon)
Clozapine (Clozaril
Symbyax
Other medications for bipolar disorder
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are a type of medication known as tranquilizers. Benzodiazepines act on the central nervous system, produce sedation and muscle relaxation, and lower anxiety levels.
Sources: http://helpguide.org/mental/bipolar_disorder_medications.html
