Bipolar Disorder Drugs

Question 1

Lithium

Answer 1

first-line treatment of mania and manic depressive illness

May be used with other meds to stabilize mood

Poor understanding of mechanism

Narrow therapeutic range
Serum level should range 0.4 and 1.5 mmol/L

Question 2

Lithium Adverse Effects (<1.5 mmol/L)

Answer 2

Fine finger tremor
Polyuria
GI upset

Question 3

Lithium Toxicity (>1.5 mmol/L)

Answer 3

CNS effects such as confusion, irritability of muscles

Question 4

Newer uses of other drugs

Answer 4

Valproate and carbamazepine (drugs used in seizures)

Drugs for depression - controversial
-Fluoxetine
NOT used alone