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What can Bipolar Meds Do?
If you are looking for the best bipolar meds then first you should consider that medication is not a cure. There is no cure for bipolar disorder. It is a mental health condition that is associated with the highs (manic) and lows (depression) of mood swings. Some medications can help to even out these extreme mood shifts.
One of the most commonly used bipolar meds is lithium. Lithium is a well-known medicine that has been successful in evening out the mood shifts of a bipolar sufferer. It helps with both extremes. But when first beginning on this treatment program it can be expected to take one to two weeks before the effects of the bipolar meds becomes apparent. That means before it even begins to contribute to lessening the severe symptoms. For bipolar disorder to be completely under control it could take several months. That is why doctors often prescribe other medications in the beginning to work along with the tried and true medications.
Often the next drug of choice is an antipsychotic. This is used for the short term only. An antidepressant can also be give during the episodes of lows. But, it is important to make sure that the lithium is still taken as the frontline bipolar meds as without it the antidepressants can cause a mood shift and create an episode of mania. There are side effects from lithium. When the person begins using it they can experience nausea, weakness, tiredness, tremors in their hands or amplified thirst. Usually these disappear quickly but not always.
Weight gain can also be a problem when using this drug. People using this bipolar med must be monitored carefully as depending on your diet lithium affects your sodium levels; sometimes dangerously. For some people lithium does not work or the side effects are too much to deal with or in some cases they simply refuse to use it. In this circumstance anticonvulsants have been known to have good success in soothing and alleviating the mood shifts.
No matter what medication has been prescribed for the person dealing with bipolar disorder it is important that they remain on this medication at all times; especially when they are feeling well.
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If you think you are dealing with
a mental illness, then seek professional help. We do not offer
personalized medical diagnosis or patient-specific treatment advice.
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Have a great day.
Paul Mackie |
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