Mood stabilizers

Mood stabilizers reduce the extreme highs and lows of bipolar disorder and help prevent future episodes. Lithium is the classic agent, and some antiepileptics such as valproate and lamotrigine are also used. Lithium has a narrow therapeutic index, so blood levels are checked regularly, and dehydration or low salt intake can push levels into the toxic range. Early signs of lithium toxicity include nausea, diarrhea, and a coarse tremor.

• LithiumKnown brand names include No current brand name for immediate-release lithium carbonate; marketed as generic capsules and tablets. Lithobid is the extended-release brand, which is not covered here..