MEDICATIONS
Mood stabilizers (including lithium)
The core of long-term bipolar treatment, chosen and monitored by a psychiatrist.
How it works
Lithium and certain anticonvulsant and antipsychotic medicines help prevent and treat mood episodes. Lithium requires regular blood tests.
What the evidence says, use by use
Evidence is specific to the condition, population and—for devices—the exact product. One label never covers everything.
Who usually provides it
Psychiatrists.
Cautions & things to know
- Lithium levels must be monitored; dehydration and some common medicines (like certain pain relievers) can raise levels.
- Several mood stabilizers carry pregnancy risks—discuss family planning.
Questions for a clinician
Conversation prompts, not a treatment plan.
- How often do we need blood tests?
- What are early warning signs of a mood episode we should plan for?
Educational, not medical advice. NeuroCoach is an educational and care-navigation resource, not a medical provider. Information about medications, supplements, therapies, devices, clinical trials and community experiences is provided for education and exploration and is not a recommendation, diagnosis or treatment plan. Evidence varies substantially among interventions. Decisions about medical or mental-health treatment should be made with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Do not start, stop or change medication, supplements or treatment based solely on information found here.
Sources
Sources checked October 5, 2026. Links support this page; they don’t imply endorsement of NeuroCoach.