What is mood-stabilizing medicines?

Here are some examples of mood stabilizers. For each item in the list, the generic name is first, followed by any brand names.

• carbamazepine (Equetro, Tegretol)
• divalproex (Depakote)
• lamotrigine (Lamictal)
• lithium (Lithobid)

This is not a complete list.

Experts don't know exactly how mood stabilizers work. They may work in the brain to help with emotions and mood problems.

Cautions for mood stabilizers include the following:

• Your doctor may want you to have regular blood tests to check your medicine levels, liver function, and blood counts.
• Do not stop taking these medicines suddenly. You should taper off of these drugs slowly with the help of your doctor. This will help you avoid serious side effects.

Mood stabilizers can help to:

• Treat mania and prevent the return of both manic and depressive episodes in bipolar disorder.
• Treat mood problems linked with schizophrenia, such as depression.
• Reduce anger, anxiety, depression, impulsivity (acting without thinking), or attempts at self-harm linked with borderline personality disorder.

Mood stabilizers can have many side effects. For example, some people may feel dizzy or sick to their stomach when they take mood stabilizers.