Bipolar Disorder: Calcium Channel Blockers for Bipolar Disorder

Sometimes a doctor may prescribe calcium channel blockers for bipolar mania. Traditionally, calcium channel blockers are used to treat high blood pressure or heart problems. These drugs are not as effective as others in treating bipolar disorder and are not used often.

These drugs block calcium channels, which are the small pores in cells that allow calcium to move in and out, which widens your blood vessels. It's not clear exactly how the drugs work, but they are used to lower blood pressure, improve irregular heartbeats, and treat migraines. They may also help stabilize moods.

Calcium channel blockers used to treat mania include:

• Diltiazem
• Nifedipine
• Nimodipine
• Verapamil

Calcium Channel Blockers Side Effects

Sometimes, a headache can develop after taking certain calcium channel blockers. These headaches should gradually disappear once you have been taking the medication for a while. Talk to your doctor if headaches continue. Some people also report tenderness, swelling, or bleeding of the gums when starting to take calcium channel blockers. Regular brushing, flossing, and gum massages along with routine dental visits can help lessen this effect. As with any medication, it is important to see your doctor regularly to make sure the drug is working properly.

Calcium channel blockers tend to cause fewer serious side effects than some other drugs used to treat bipolar disorder. However, they are also less effective.

Common side effects include:

• Slowed heart rate or irregular heart rhythm
• Flushing, a pounding sensation in the head, dizziness, headache
• Leg swelling
• Decreased blood pressure
• Tingling sensations in the arms or legs
• Weakness
• Constipation

Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It isn't known if these drugs could harm the fetus.

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Psychiatry and Psychology.