MEDICATION REFERENCE
Mood stabilisers
Used primarily to manage bipolar disorder, smoothing out episodes of mania/hypomania and depression.
USAGE NOTES
- Often started and adjusted gradually, with blood levels checked for some medicines.
- Regular blood tests may be needed to monitor levels and organ function.
- Benefits for mood stability usually build over weeks, even when a dose feels right quickly.
Several mood stabilisers require regular blood monitoring - missed tests can be unsafe.
Dehydration, certain other medicines, and illness can affect blood levels of some mood stabilisers.
Some mood stabilisers carry specific risks in pregnancy; this should be discussed directly with a prescriber.
Never stop or change dose without medical guidance - this can trigger a relapse or, for some medicines, be medically risky.
Related themes
General reference information only. MindHx does not prescribe, personalize, or recommend medication. Always speak with a licensed prescriber before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.