HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Which Medication Help To Cure Bipolar Disorder When Experiencing Depression?

Hello, I have a few questions regarding bipolar disorder. I was wondering what medications help the most when the person is in the depressed mode? I realize that lithium is the drug of choice but it also has the weight gain involved too, what other medications would help? the reason I am asking is because I just can't seem to focus, and I'm just not myself. I can't even keep a conversation going. This is not me. I've always been very productive and even when there was a lot of stress I was able to keep a job, but now I can't even keep a job. I was recently fired. I've never been fired in my life. My supervisor said that he felt "I was too distracted" and not really "focused". This was the final straw. I've started gambling to the point where I spend every last dime. I don't even buy groceries and then I feel worse. I just don't know what to think anymore. I am not the same person I was a year ago, not even close. Everything that was important is no longer important and I don't understand why. If you could give some advice or direction so I can fix this "problem" I would be very thankful.
Tue, 8 Apr 2014
Report Abuse
Psychiatrist 's  Response
Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query.

I understand that you are going through a very difficult time. From the description of your symptoms, it appears that you could be going through a depressive episode. However, I'm not sure why you think you could have a bipolar disorder. So, if you have not been seen by a psychiatrist, I would advise you to see one for a detailed evaluation and diagnosis.

Regarding your question about medication, Bipiolar disorder is treated primarily with mood stabilizers. There are other mood stabilizers, other than Lithium, such as Valproate, Carbamazepine, Lamotrigine, etc. The choice of the mood stabilizer would depend on a number of factors and is decided on an individual basis. So, please consult a psychiatrist for further evaluation and to discuss treatment options.

Wish you all the best.

Regards,
Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar
Consultant Psychiatrist
I find this answer helpful

Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Loading Online Doctors....
Which Medication Help To Cure Bipolar Disorder When Experiencing Depression?

Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query. I understand that you are going through a very difficult time. From the description of your symptoms, it appears that you could be going through a depressive episode. However, I m not sure why you think you could have a bipolar disorder. So, if you have not been seen by a psychiatrist, I would advise you to see one for a detailed evaluation and diagnosis. Regarding your question about medication, Bipiolar disorder is treated primarily with mood stabilizers. There are other mood stabilizers, other than Lithium, such as Valproate, Carbamazepine, Lamotrigine, etc. The choice of the mood stabilizer would depend on a number of factors and is decided on an individual basis. So, please consult a psychiatrist for further evaluation and to discuss treatment options. Wish you all the best. Regards, Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar Consultant Psychiatrist