Medications
- Mood Stabilizers: These drugs are needed to control hypermanic episodes.
- Antipsychotics: These drugs may be prescribed if symptoms of depression and mania persist despite the use of other medications. They can be used along with mood stabilizers or alone.
- Antidepressant: These manage depressive phases. They are often prescribed along with a mood stabilizer because antidepressants can trigger manic episodes.
- Symbyax: This is an antidepressant-antipsycotic often used to treat bipolar I disorder. It works as a mood stabilizer and a antidepressant.
- Benzodiazepines: These anti-anxiety medications are used mostly on a short term basis to relieve anxiety and improve sleep
Therapies
Although bipolar disorder is a disruptive, long-term condition, you can keep your moods in check by following a treatment plan. In most cases, bipolar disorder can be controlled with medications and psychological counseling (psychotherapy).
- Cognitive behavior therapy: This therapy focuses on identifying negative behaviors and replacing them with healthy behaviors. This can help people identify what is causing their bipolar episodes.
- Psychoeducation: This counseling helps patients learn about bipolar disorder which helps them get the best treatment and helps them recognize warning signs of mood swings.
- Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT): This therapy focusses on stabilizing daily activities such as sleep, the time patients wake up and their mealtimes. When patients have a constant routine it is easier for them to manage their mood.
Although bipolar disorder is a disruptive, long-term condition, you can keep your moods in check by following a treatment plan. In most cases, bipolar disorder can be controlled with medications and psychological counseling (psychotherapy).