Trauma Survivors Network - provided by ATS

Survive. Connect. Rebuild.

A Program of the ATS

Lithium

Lithium has been successfully prescribed for the treatment of bipolar disorder, based on its effectiveness in moderating associated mood swings. However, the use of this medication must be closely monitored because the range between an effective dose and a toxic one is small. Lithium is not typically recommended for individuals with preexisting thyroid, kidney and heart disorders, or epilepsy. For these individuals, other effective treatments include mood-stabilizing anticonvulsants namely carbamazepine (Tegretol) and valproate (Depakote). These medications have received wide recognition for their effectiveness in treating bipolar disorder, and valproate has been approved by the food and drug administration as the most efficient treatment for acute mania. Similar drugs still under investigation include lamotrigine (Lamictal) and gabapentin (Neurontin).

Typically, individuals with bipolar disorder will benefit most from multiple medications, including lithium and/or an anticonvulsant, and additional medications for accompanying agitation, anxiety, depression, or insomnia. Finding the optimal combination is the most important aspect of treatment, and requires close monitoring by the doctor or psychiatrist