Mood Disorder Medication Options
Mood disorders, as defined by the Mayo Clinic are characterized by a distortion of one’s general emotional state and/ or mood that is inconsistent with the current circumstances and interferes with one’s ability to function. Mood disorders are divided between two categories: bipolar disorder and depressive. Within each category there are several different subtypes:
Depression (major or clinical depression): characterized by persistent, severe sadness that interferes with one’s ability to function
Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)
Postpartum depression (peripartum depression)
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Psychotic depression
Depression related to a medical condition, medication, or substance abuse
Bipolar disorder (manic-depressive disorder): characterized by mood swings from periods of depression to periods of mania
Bipolar I disorder
Bipolar II disorder
Cyclothymia disorder (cyclothymia)
Unspecified bipolar disorder
While anxiety disorders can affect one’s mood, they are not considered to be mood disorders.
MEDICATIONS
Depending on the individual’s needs, medication can be an effective component to his or her mood disorder treatment plan. The three most common types of medications used to treat mood disorders include the following:
Mood stabilizers (anticonvulsants): originally developed to treat epilepsy or seizures, some anticonvulsant medications have been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as safe and effective for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Examples of the most widely used mood stabilizers include:
Valproic (valproic acid)
Lamictal (lamotrigine)
Trileptal (oxecarbazepine)
Tegretol (carbamazepine)
Antidepressants: can help reduce or eliminate the symptoms of depression, treating depression and depressive episodes of bipolar disorder. Some examples of the most widely used antidepressants include:
o SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)
Celexa (citalopram)
Lexapro (escitalopram)
Zoloft (sertraline)
§ Prozac (fluoxetine)
SNRIs (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors)
Cymbalta (duloxetine)
Effexor (venlafaxine)
Antipsychotics: originally used to treat schizophrenia, antipsychotic medications are now also used to treat bipolar disorder. The most widely known example of antipsychotic medication used to treat a mood disorder is Abilify (aripiprazole)
It is imperative to obtain an accurate diagnosis from a qualified medical professional so as to ensure proper treatment. Most treatment plans for individuals diagnosed with a mood disorder will comprise of psychotherapy and medication. Every individual is unique and though physicians are aware of the typical effects of medication used to relieve symptoms of a mood disorder, they are also acutely aware of the fact that each person is likely to have a distinct reaction to medications. Full transparency with one’s treatment provider regarding any lingering adverse side effects is essential. Distinguishing the most effective medication and dosage when treating mood disorders can be complicated. For many, the process of finding the right medication or combination of medications may take time, and it may require trying several different medications before arriving at the best and most effective medication treatment plan.
FOR INFORMATION AND SUPPORT
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regards to mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. There is an entire network of professionals that are readily available to help and support you and your loved one throughout every step of the recovery process.
If left untreated, substance abuse, addiction, and/ or mental illness can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. Please do not hesitate to reach out for guidance. We are always available to answer any questions, and are certainly happy to discuss how we might best be able to help in the recovery process.