About This Medicine

Make sure you know about each of the medicines you take. This includes why you take it, how to take it, what you can expect while you're taking it, and any warnings about the medicine.

The information provided here is general. So be sure to read the information that came with your medicine. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.

What are some examples?

Here are some examples of mood stabilizers. For each item in the list, the generic name is first, followed by any brand names.

• carbamazepine (Tegretol)
• divalproex (Epival)
• lamotrigine (Lamictal)
• lithium (Lithane)

This is not a complete list.

Why are mood stabilizers used?

Mood stabilizers can help to:

• Treat mania and prevent the return of both manic and depressive episodes in bipolar disorder.
• Treat mood problems linked with schizophrenia, such as depression.
• Reduce anger, anxiety, depression, impulsivity (acting without thinking), or attempts at self-harm linked with borderline personality disorder.

How do they work?

Experts don't know exactly how mood stabilizers work. They may work in the brain to help with emotions and mood problems.

What about side effects?

Mood stabilizers can have many side effects. For example, some people may feel dizzy or sick to their stomach when they take mood stabilizers.

General information about side effects

All medicines can cause side effects. Many people don't have side effects. And minor side effects sometimes go away after a while.

But sometimes side effects can be a problem or can be serious.

If you're having problems with side effects, talk to your doctor. Your doctor may be able to lower your dose or change to a different medicine.

Always be sure you get specific information on the medicine you're taking. For a full list of side effects, check the information that came with the medicine you're using. If you have questions, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.

What are some cautions about mood stabilizers?

Cautions for mood stabilizers include the following:

• Your doctor may want you to have regular blood tests to check your medicine levels, liver function, and blood counts.
• Do not stop taking these medicines suddenly. You should taper off of these drugs slowly with the help of your doctor. This will help you avoid serious side effects.

General cautions for all medicines

Allergic reactions.

All medicines can cause a reaction. This can sometimes be an emergency. Before you take any new medicine, tell the doctor or pharmacist about any past allergic reactions you've had.

Drug interactions.

Sometimes one medicine may keep another medicine from working well. Or you may get a side effect you didn't expect. Medicines may also interact with certain foods or drinks, like grapefruit juice and alcohol. Some interactions can be dangerous.

Harm during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, ask your doctor or pharmacist if all the medicines you take are safe.

Other health problems.

Before taking a medicine, be sure your doctor or pharmacist knows about all your health problems. The medicine for one health problem may affect another health problem.

Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medicines you take. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines and natural health products. That information will help prevent serious problems.

Always be sure you get specific information on the medicine you're taking. For a full list of warnings, check the information that came with the medicine you're using. If you have questions, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.