How to Cope With the Side Effects of Bipolar Medications

Bipolar disorder causes people to experience extreme mood swings, along with other symptoms. Although there is no cure for the condition, medications can alleviate some symptoms. However, each person reacts to a medication differently. It is important to work with your doctor to find the drugs or combination of drugs that can effectively treat the disorder.

Instructions

1. Keep a journal or a log to track the side effects caused by your medications. Often it takes trying several different medications before the best combination is found. Discuss the side effects with your doctor.

2. Drink 4 to 8 glasses of water a day. If you feel hot or dizzy go into an air conditioned building or take a cool shower. Overheating and dehydration can create other serious problems while you're taking the medication.

3. Snack frequently on dried foods such as crackers if you are experiencing nausea from your medications. If your bipolar disorder medications cause chronic vomiting or diarrhea, tell your doctor.

4. Get plenty of rest and avoid caffeine if your medication causes tremors. If tremors continue despite your lifestyle changes, tell your doctor.

5. Increase your level of physical activity and watch the number of calories you consume since some patients report adding unwanted pounds after taking bipolar medications. Topomax, an anticonvulsant, can help you to lose weight and doctors may combine it with your bipolar drugs to offset weight gains.

6. Regularly visit a psychotherapist to cope with feelings of helplessness and despair. If you have suicidal thoughts, call your therapist or a local suicide hotline.

7. Take your medications as prescribed. Don't stop taking the medications when you are feeling good or if you feel the side effects are not worth the benefits. Stopping medications cold turkey can have serious side effects. If you are considering making changes in your medication, discuss them with your doctor first.