Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Treatment options include:
Medications
Many patients are treated with a combination of two or more of these medications:
- Lithium —a mood stabilizer, often used as initial treatment (helps prevent manic and depressive episodes from returning)
-
Antiseizure medications—also used as mood stabilizers instead or in combination with lithium
- Depakote (Valproate)
- Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
- Lamotrigine (Lamictal)
- Topiramate (Topamax)
-
Benzodiazepines—can be used to treat agitation or
insomnia
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Zolpidem (Ambien)—used to treat insomnia
- Antidepressants (serotonin reuptake inhibitors or bupropion [Wellbutrin])—used to treat depression
-
Antipsychotic medications—used for acute manic or mixed episodes and maintenance treatment
- Classic antipsychotic medications (eg, haloperidol [Haldol]) are not often used because of risks of tardive dyskinesia (uncontrollable movements)
- Atypical antipsychotic medications (eg, risperidone , olanzapine , aripiprazole , ziprasidone , and quetiapine ) are more effective with less risk of tardive dyskinesia
The plan is based on the pattern of the illness. Treatment may need to be continued indefinitely. It should prevent significant mood swings.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy may include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Counseling
- Family therapy
- Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy, a form of therapy designed to treat bipolar disorder
Electroconvulsive Therapy
Electroconvulsive therapy may be effective when medications fail. It can be used for both mania and depression.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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