Investigating the Most Effective Treatments for Bipolar Disorder

Lithium: The most frequently prescribed mood stabilizer, demonstrated to be effective for both manic and depressive episodes as well as long-term maintenance.

Valproate (Depakote): Typically used for individuals who cannot tolerate lithium or for those experiencing rapid-cycling bipolar disorder.

Lamotrigine (Lamictal): Particularly effective in preventing depressive episodes.

Carbamazepine (Tegretol): A viable option for patients who do not respond well to lithium or valproate.

Olanzapine (Zyprexa), Quetiapine (Seroquel), Risperidone (Risperdal), and Aripiprazole (Abilify) are commonly utilized to manage acute manic episodes and for maintenance therapy.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Fluoxetine (Prozac) may be prescribed during depressive episodes, but are often combined with a mood stabilizer to prevent the onset of manic episodes.

Occasionally, benzodiazepines like Lorazepam or Clonazepam are prescribed on a short-term basis for acute agitation or anxiety.