Lithium: Lithium is the gold standard for bipolar disorder.
Answered 6/19/2015
6.2k views
"best"? depends: Although lithium sets the standard for effectiveness, it unfortunately risks damage to the kidneys and thyroid gland when taken long-term. Psychiatrists turn to alternatives, mostly meds originally developed to prevent seizures, that also stabilize mood. A popular example is Depakote (divalproex sodium). It has risks too, but less than lithium does. Good info: http://www.Pendulum.Org/meds.Html.
Answered 4/23/2016
6.2k views
Type of Bipolar D/O: Treating bipolar d/o is not like one size fits all. Bipolar d/o has numerous types and sub-types. The choice of medicine will depend upon the phase, and co-existing symptoms, as this d/o is associated with anxiety, ocd, and other conditions. Moreover the symptoms change over the life span of the individual and require change in medicines over time. Treating with one medicine is the exception.
Answered 10/3/2016
6.1k views
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