Bipolar Disorder
Mood stabilizers and other medications used to treat bipolar disorder.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that causes intense mood swings. You may experience periods of feeling very 'up,' elated, or energized, known as manic episodes. Conversely, you may also feel 'down,' sad, or hopeless during depressive episodes. Sometimes, both manic and depressive symptoms can occur together in what is called a mixed episode. This disorder can also lead to changes in behavior, energy levels, and activity levels.
Types of Bipolar Disorder
There are three main types of bipolar disorder. Bipolar I disorder involves manic episodes lasting at least 7 days or severe manic symptoms requiring immediate hospital care, along with common depressive episodes. Bipolar II disorder includes depressive episodes and less severe manic episodes known as hypomania. Cyclothymic disorder, or cyclothymia, features milder hypomanic and depressive symptoms lasting for at least two years in adults.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Symptoms of bipolar disorder vary and include mood episodes. Manic episodes may involve feeling very up, jumpy, or irritable, having racing thoughts, needing less sleep, and engaging in risky behaviors. Depressive episodes can include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, low energy, and changes in sleep and appetite. Mixed episodes combine both manic and depressive symptoms.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of bipolar disorder is not known, but several factors may contribute, including genetics, brain structure and function, and environmental influences. You may be at higher risk if you have a close relative with the disorder or if you have experienced trauma or stressful life events.
Treatment for Bipolar Disorder
Treatment for bipolar disorder can be effective and may include a combination of medicines and psychotherapy. Medicines help control symptoms, and it may take time to find the right one for you. Psychotherapy can assist in recognizing and changing troubling emotions and behaviors, providing support and coping strategies.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience symptoms of bipolar disorder, it is important to see a healthcare provider. They can conduct a physical exam, review your medical history, and perform a mental health evaluation to diagnose the condition.
Medications used to treat Bipolar Disorder
Several classes of medication treat bipolar disorder. Which is right depends on your health — that is a decision for you and your provider. Compare prices and coupons on any of them:
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Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of a manic episode?
Symptoms of a manic episode can include feeling very up or elated, being jumpy or wired, having a short temper, racing thoughts, needing less sleep, feeling unusually important, and engaging in risky behaviors.
What are the symptoms of a depressive episode?
Symptoms of a depressive episode can include feeling very sad or hopeless, isolating yourself, talking slowly, having little energy, sleeping too much or too little, lack of interest in activities, and thinking about death or suicide.
What is rapid cycling in bipolar disorder?
Having four or more episodes of mania or depression in a year is called 'rapid cycling.'
How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?
To diagnose bipolar disorder, a healthcare provider may perform a physical exam, review your medical history, conduct medical tests to rule out other conditions, and perform a mental health evaluation.
What should I do if I have concerns about my treatment?
It's important to contact your provider if you have any concerns about side effects from the medicines.
Compare prices for bipolar disorder medications
25 medications — select one to compare prices and coupons.
- Asenapine Maleate
- Carbamazepine
- Carbamazepine Er
- Clonazepam
- Clozapine
- Divalproex Sodium
- Divalproex Sodium Er
- Gabapentin
- Lamotrigine
- Lamotrigine Er
- Lithium
- Lithium Carbonate
- Lithium Carbonate Er
- Lurasidone Hcl
- Olanzapine
- Olanzapine Fluoxetine Hcl
- Paliperidone Er
- Quetiapine Fumarate
- Quetiapine Fumarate Er
- Risperidone
- Sodium Valproate
- Tiagabine Hcl
- Topiramate
- Topiramate Er
- Valproic Acid
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Condition information adapted from MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Medication list sourced from RxClass (MED-RT, U.S. National Library of Medicine). Inclusion does not imply a medication is right for you.
Medical disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a licensed physician, pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.