Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder can be treated with a combination of psychotherapy and prescription medications. The first step any one who suffers from this disorder must take is getting a diagnosis from a psychiatrist or psychologist before any medications or therapies can begin. SSRI’s and MAOI’s are the two groups of antidepressant drugs most commonly used to combat the symptoms of bipolar disease, but because of the severity of this condition psychotherapy is also highly recommended in conjunction with any drug therapy.

Treatments of bipolar disorder are usually administered with medications. Mood stabilizers are used in combination with antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants. These medications regulate bipolar episodes.

Lithium

Oldest and frequently prescribed medication for bipolar disorder, but this is not recommended for patients having mixed mania. Sometimes, Lithium is used together with benzodiazepines or neuroleptics.

Carbamazepine

This is an anticonvulsant prescribed along with mood stabilizers. If the patient did not respond well with the lithium therapy, this medication can be used.

Valproate

If you’re experiencing a rapid cycling of bipolar, this is a very effective medication. It can be used alone or in combination with other drugs.

Antidepressants may stimulate mania episodes in some patients, therefore used only for short term.

SSRIs

This is used to regulate depression and it includes flouxetine, sertaline, and paroxetine.

MAOIs

This drug blocks the monoamine oxidase’s action, and to avoid side effects, you should not eat foods with high amounts of tyramine.

Electroconvulsive Therapy

This is very successful in treating bipolar depression but this is employed only after pharmaceutical treatment options have been exhausted. The treatment is given together with anesthesia and muscle relaxant to avoid convulsions.

Neuroleptics

To control manic symptoms, drugs like haloperidol and chlorpromazine are used, but you must be aware that side effects are more severe with neuroleptics.

Counseling and Psychotherapy

Some experts claim that bipolar disorder is biological, and therefore, entails therapy. The therapy alone is not sufficient to substitute medications and so the patient must continue taking his medicines. It’s a helpful tool for the patients and their families to encourage medication compliance and reduce suicide risks.

Bipolar medications are really important. When you’re completely stabilized and controlled, don’t stop taking medications. Remember that bipolar disorder is for a lifetime, and so you must continue with your medication and treatment.