Mood Stabilizers

Question 1

Lithium

Answer 1

Acute mania
Prophylaxis for Bi-polar disorder, especially with manic episodes
Augmentation of antidepressant in severe depression

Unknown and complex mechanism

-GI upset
- Polydipsia and polyuria
- Metallic taste in mouth
- Weight gain
- Hypothyrodism
-Fine tremor
Interactions:
-Dieuretics and NSAIDs increase the plasma [lithium].
-Methyldopa, carbamazepine and phenytoin increase toxicity of lithium

Question 2

Anti Convulsants

Answer 2

Valproic Acid

• Bi-polar disorder
• Increased risk of neural tube defects in pregnant women
• Monitor LFTs every 2 months for the first 6 months of treatment.
• Alopecia
• Weight gain
• Possible hepatic and renal toxicity (must monitor carefully)
• Tremor