What is a mood stabilizer with bipolar?

A mood stabilizer is a type of medication that helps to treat the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that causes extreme mood swings, from mania to depression. Mood stabilizers can help to level out these mood swings and prevent them from becoming too severe.

There are a number of different types of mood stabilizers available, and the best one for a particular patient will depend on their individual needs. Some common mood stabilizers include:

* Lithium

* Valproate

* Carbamazepine

* Lamotrigine

* Atypical antipsychotics, such as olanzapine and quetiapine

Mood stabilizers are usually taken on a long-term basis, even when symptoms are well-controlled. This is because bipolar disorder is a chronic illness, and there is no cure. Mood stabilizers can help to prevent symptoms from returning and can improve a person's quality of life.

Mood stabilizers can cause a number of side effects, including:

* Nausea

* Vomiting

* Diarrhea

* Dizziness

* Drowsiness

* Weight gain

* Dry mouth

* Hair loss

* Blurred vision

* Difficulty concentrating

* Mood changes

* Suicidal thoughts

If you are experiencing any of these side effects, talk to your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dose or suggest ways to manage the side effects.

Mood stabilizers are an important part of treatment for bipolar disorder. If you are taking a mood stabilizer, it is important to take it as directed and to follow your doctor's instructions. This will help to ensure that the medication is effective and that you experience as few side effects as possible.