Trileptal Bipolar Medication -- Is it Right for You?

Trileptal bipolar medication is one option for the treatment of bipolar disorder, also referred to as manic depression. Trileptal is made from an older medicine, Tegretol, with oxygen added to it. This added oxygen solves the problem of decreased white blood cells which has been seen with traditional Tegretol. Trileptal is an anti-seizure medication but can also be used in the treatment of manic depression. It falls into the category of mood stabilizer.

Trileptal is still often third in line behind lithium and Depakote when it comes to stabilizing moods associated with bipolar disorder. This is partly because it is not quite as strong, and partly because the manufacturer has not acquired an FDA indication for bipolar disorder. However, there are benefits to this drug as opposed to other mood stabilizers. One is the low risk of severe side effects. Another is that it is not associated with excessive weight gain like Depakote or lithium. The lack of dangerous side effects in most patients makes Trileptal an attractive option for some medical professionals.

The decision to use Trileptal comes down to weighing the pros and cons. For some, the low occurrence of side effects is well worth the decreased strength. For others, it's worth dealing with various side effects of stronger medications if it means alleviating severe symptoms. Whether or not Trileptal is right for you will be decided by your doctor or psychiatrist after thorough medical and psychological examinations. Sometimes, this medication may be used along with other drugs like antidepressants or antipsychotics.

Trileptal bipolar medication, or any other type of bipolar medication, must be used under strict medical supervision. If you are prescribed medication for your bipolar disorder, it is important to take it exactly as directed. Make sure you understand the risks, side effects and interactions of your medication before leaving your doctor's office. If you experience distressing side effects, do not discontinue your medication. Contact your doctor and let him or her know about the side effects. He or she will let you know whether you can or should discontinue use or keep taking the prescription. Some medications cause side effects that are temporary and will subside after your body adjusts to the drug. Stopping medication without your doctor's approval may cause more dangerous effects than the ones caused by the medication.

Copyright 2007 Jim Sterling - All Rights Reserved

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