Abstract
Mood stabilizers are pharmacological agents used in the treatment of bipolar disorders. Bipolar disorders include bipolar disorder, type I (manic episodes) and bipolar disorder, type II (hypomanic episodes), as well as substance-induced bipolar disorder or bipolar disorder due to a medical condition. Psychopharmacological compounds represent the primary treatment method of bipolar disorder episodes, but it is important to keep in mind that multiple psychotherapy options and psychoeducation are imperative in attaining mood stability and prevention of future episodes. Mood stabilizers include a heterogeneous group of medications including lithium, anti-epileptic agents and antipsychotic medications, all with the goal of achieving and maintaining euthymia. The choice of treatment for bipolar disorder depends on many factors including family history, type of episode and bipolar course of illness as well as co-morbid illnesses. Multiple medications are approved for use in mania, bipolar depression, mixed episodes and maintenance as well as prevention of recurrence. Information required before initiation of a mood stabilizer, dosages and the testing procedures needed to be completed during medication treatment are provided. Signs and symptoms of toxicity as well as the use of mood stabilizers in special populations conclude this article.
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