Side Effects of Medication for Bipolar Disorder

“I’ve been taking medication for bipolar disorder for about a year. I am bothered by several side effects of the medications. What can I do about the side effects? Are there some medications that do not have side effects?”

It is very frustrating to live with the side effects of medication. Sometimes the side effects can not only be annoying, but also be dangerous to one’s health and well-being.

All medications have some side effects. These side effects can be numerous and often include drowsiness, sleeplessness, anxiety, lack of ability to focus, limits in concentration, loss of some short term memory, sexual side effects, and suicidal ideation.

I have two important suggestions. First, there is a recent report called The Texas Medication Algorithm Project. This document is published by the American Psychiatric Association and presents the latest information regarding effective treatment models and the positive and negative effects of medication. Second, I am assuming that you are working with a psychiatrist for medication management. You need to discuss  your particular side effects with the psychiatrist. He or she is the only person who can, with your input, adjust the medication that you are taking. It is truly unfortunate that the very medication “cocktail” that best treats your bipolar symptoms may also have debilitating side effects. It is important that your psychiatrist is familiar with efficacious treatment, such as that reported in the TMAP, and your own experiences. With this information, you will be better able to ameliorate some, but probably not all, of your side effects. Good luck.

~ Dr. Manuel S. Silverman, PhD