Written by: Darlia
Medications used to treat bipolar disorder.
Medical professionals use different types of drugs to treat this disorder. Because bipolar disorder ranges in extremes, some drugs are used to treat the highs of the mania while others are for the lows caused by the depression. The number of drugs prescribed may also vary, depending on the case at hand. Some drugs that are used are:
Lithium
When used in medication, this element works with vitamins, enzymes, drugs and other internal body growth factors by helping to increase the activity of chemical receptors in the brain. It seems safe for human use when taken with guidance and monitoring from a practitioner, although some side effects such as diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, and dizziness may accrue with extended use. More side effects include thirst, weight gain, fine tremors, and aggravating skin disorders.
Valproic Acid
This medication works for bipolar disorder by rectifying the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. The capsules are meant to be swallowed whole, as chewing them may irritate the mouth and throat. Some common side effects include diarrhea, slight body tremors, hair loss, dizziness, ringing in the ears and double vision. Weight changes may occur, as well as drowsiness induced by medicine.
Lamotrigine
This medication may be prescribed alone, or with other medicine to alleviate the effects of bipolar disorder, especially extreme mood variations in adults, and may not be used for children under 2 years. It works by correcting the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. Some of the side effects from the use of this drug include nausea, drowsiness coupled with dizziness and headache. A small percentage of users have reported experiencing depression and self-harming thoughts or behavior as a direct effect of using this drug.
Divalproex
This drug is used to treat bipolar disorder and works by regulating the balance of neurotransmitters that are present in the brain. The medication is not intended to be crushed or chewed, as it may irritate the mouth and throat. Some side effects that arise from the use of this drug include irregularities in menstruation, hair loss, blurry vision, diarrhea, weight changes, and fine tremors. The appearance of partial tablets in the stool may indicate certain specific intestinal disorders, and it is advisable to seek expert help immediately.
Carbamazepine
This medication is used to prevent and manage seizures, and can also be used in relieving certain kinds of nerve pain. It works by containing the spread of seizures in the brain and restoring normal neural activity in the brain. Grapefruit is known to increase the chances of experiencing side effects from this medication and should be avoided unless advised otherwise by a doctor. Side effects of using this drug include nausea, constipation, dizziness, slight body tremors, and dry mouth.
Natural alternatives for bipolar disorder
Fish and fish oil are known as a good source of omega 3 acids which directly affect the balance of brain chemicals associated with mood variance. These acids help to reduce aggression and irritability and work towards maintaining the mood stability of the patient. Golden root or Rhodiola rosea is a stimulant that helps to treat depression but has some side effects such as nausea, insomnia, and vivid dreaming. Choline is a soluble vitamin in water that alleviates manic symptoms in people who experience bipolar disorder in rapid cycles. Calming techniques such as yoga, massage therapy and acupuncture help to reduce stress and anxiety that are usually symptoms of bipolar disorder.
CBD Oil Treatment
CBD oil is derived from cannabis plants and contains cannabinoids, which bind to the erratic brain receptors in people who have bipolar disorder and regulate the chemicals in the brain. Cannabinoids that have been isolated by researchers as key in the treatment of mood disorders include CBG and CBCV. CBD is rarely known to cause adverse reactions, but as studies are still in progress to uncover its full potential, it is prudent to consult a doctor and monitor the progress of alleviation of bipolar disorder symptoms.
Life changes that can help ease the anxiety
Sleep
A person with bipolar disorder may experience lack of sleep during manic phases due to all the hyperactivity and sleep for extended periods during the depression phases. Enough sleep is recommended to help manage moods, and it is considered best for bipolar people to establish good sleep routines to help regulate moods.
Diet
People who have bipolar disorder are known to be heavy feeders due to side effects from medicine or from overfeeding during bouts of depression. This may lead to being overweight and exposure to other medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease or anxiety. To improve the rate and chances of recovery, it is advisable for people with bipolar disorder to maintain healthy eating habits.
Exercise
Exercise may not be directly linked to helping people with bipolar disorder, but it is known to alter moods, especially during phases of depression. Apart from aiding with the mood, working out also presents other benefits such as physical fitness and general quality of life improvement.
How to help as a partner to someone diagnosed with bipolar disorder
Spend some time together with your partner and connect socially with them. This may sound too basic, but during bouts of mania or depression, your relationship with them may help as you try to manage the symptoms. Encourage them to take their medication and monitor the progress brought about by their use. Doctors may need you to provide details for further help, which can only be noted by careful observation. Go along for checkups and appointments with your partner and let them feel loved, cared for and wholly appreciated. During bouts of depression or mania, resist the urge to lash out at them. Remember that the underlying issue is bipolar disorder and that your partner has not just decided on being rude.
How to be a supportive friend to someone diagnosed with bipolar disorder
Listen to what they have to say, and keep conclusions or opinions to yourself as they may be demoralizing to your friend then. Only share what you think when you’ve been asked explicitly about it. Encourage your friend to participate in activities that take their mind off of things that may aggravate symptoms of bipolar disorder. Activities such as yoga and meditation are good at engaging the mind and reducing stress levels. Your friend needs you, and the best you can do is be strong for them and for you too. Take care of yourself so that you have enough love, patience, courage and sympathy to empathize with your friend on their journey.