What type of medication is commonly prescribed for bipolar disorder?

Mood stabilizers are commonly prescribed for bipolar disorder because they are specifically designed to help regulate mood swings, particularly the manic and depressive episodes characteristic of this condition. They help to stabilize mood by preventing the extreme highs and lows that can disrupt a person's life. The most well-known mood stabilizers include lithium, as well as certain anticonvulsants such as valproate and lamotrigine, which have been shown to be effective in managing symptoms of bipolar disorder.

While antidepressants can sometimes be used in conjunction with mood stabilizers to address depressive symptoms, they can also increase the risk of mania if not carefully monitored. Anxiolytics may help to manage anxiety symptoms that can accompany bipolar disorder but are not the primary treatment for the mood fluctuations of the disorder. Antipsychotics can be utilized in treating symptoms of mania or psychosis in bipolar disorder, but they are generally not the first line of treatment for stabilizing mood long-term. Ultimately, mood stabilizers play a crucial role in ensuring that individuals with bipolar disorder can maintain a more even emotional state.