Bipolar Disorder Health Center

Treating Bipolar Depression

How are antipsychotic medications used in treating bipolar depression?

Experts find that antipsychotic drugs may play a role in the treatment of bipolar depression. Seroquel and Seroquel XR are used for the treatment of depressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder. Another effective drug with rapid onset for the treatment of bipolar depression is Symbyax, a combination medication of the atypical antipsychotic Zyprexa ( olanzapine) and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) Prozac ( fluoxetine), an antidepressant.

These medications work by blocking brain receptors involved in mood and behavior, and helping to restore the balance of certain natural chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters).

Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks of the available medications to help you get relief from the bipolar depression without the risk of mania and/or drug interactions.

How do the CNS depressants help with bipolar disorder depression?

Central nervous system (CNS) depressants, which include the benzodiazepines, act on neurotransmitters to slow down normal brain function. CNS depressants are commonly used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders and may be an effective alternative or adjunctive therapy in some bipolar patients with acute mania.

Some commonly used benzodiazepines include clonazepam ( Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), alprazolam (Xanax), and diazepam (Valium). These drugs are all habit-forming/addictive and must be used only during the acute phase of the illness and not as long-term medications.

Is electroconvulsant therapy (ECT) a viable treatment for bipolar depression?

Guidelines from the American Psychiatric Association suggest that ECT is a reasonable alternative in those patients who may have suicidal ideation or psychosis. In addition, ECT may benefit women who are pregnant and suffer with severe bipolar depression.

What about psychotherapy for help with bipolar depression?

Along with medications for bipolar depression, patients may benefit from ongoing psychotherapy. This one-on-one therapy combines interpersonal psychotherapy with behavioral techniques to help patients learn how to diminish interpersonal problems, stay compliant to the medication regimen, and regularize their lifestyle habits.