Medications for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a less prevalent form of depression. It is also known as manic-depressive illness. In this type of disorder, there is a severe swing in the moods from mania to depression.

Lithium is the most widely used medication for controlling the mood swings. The administration of this medication should be done with utmost care as a slight overdose can turn the medicine into toxic. People suffering from epilepsy, heart disorders, kidney problems and thyroid problems should not use Lithium. Usually people suffering from bipolar disorder are given a combination medicine.

Depakote is a new medicine which is highly effective in controlling the mood swings associated with bipolar disorder. Tegretol, Lamictal and Neurontin are new medicines which are under clinical trial.