Medication options
- Medication is key in treating bipolar disorder.
- It may take time to find the right medicine, combination, and dose.
- If you stop taking your prescribed medication, your symptoms could return.
The Role of Medications in Treating Bipolar Disorder
Medication is key in your treatment plan. Often, adjustments and changes will be necessary to determine which medicine works best for you. It may take several weeks to see the effects of treatment. While many people experience positive results, there are some who may not respond to the medicines currently available.
With your help, your doctor can prescribe the medication that works best for you. If you stop taking your medication, your symptoms could return and an opportunity for wellness may be missed.
Several types of medications are used to treat bipolar disorder, including
- Lithium
- Older anticonvulsant medications
- Newer anticonvulsant medications
- Atypical antipsychotics
These may be prescribed alone or in combination, as determined by your doctor. It may take time to reach the right dose or balance of these medications. Adjustments may also be needed to address unwanted side effects. In addition,
- People respond differently to medications, so several may have to be tried
- Dosages sometimes need to be adjusted, especially as treatment progresses
- More than one medication may be needed. This may be due to other symptoms or side effects
- Some medicines need to be taken for several days or weeks before you notice any progress
Download tools that can help you remember to take your medication as prescribed.