Antidepressants can potentially trigger manic or hypomanic episodes in some individuals with bipolar disorder. This is particularly true if the person is experiencing undiagnosed or untreated bipolar disorder and is prescribed only an antidepressant without a mood stabilizer.
Antidepressants are commonly used to treat depression, but they primarily work to elevate certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. In bipolar disorder, these medications can have a stimulating effect that might lead to the onset of manic or hypomanic symptoms. This phenomenon is known as "antidepressant-induced mania" or "antidepressant-induced hypomania."
It's essential for healthcare providers to exercise caution when prescribing antidepressants to individuals with bipolar disorder. If someone with bipolar depression is prescribed an antidepressant, it should typically be used in combination with a mood stabilizer to help prevent the risk of triggering a manic or hypomanic episode.
If you have bipolar disorder and are prescribed antidepressants, it's essential to monitor your mood closely and report any signs of mania or hypomania to your healthcare provider. These signs may include:
- Increased energy and restlessness
- Decreased need for sleep
- Racing thoughts
- Impulsivity and risk-taking behavior
- Elevated mood or irritability
- Exaggerated self-confidence or grandiosity
- Increased talkativeness
If antidepressant-induced mania or hypomania occurs, your healthcare provider may adjust your medication regimen or introduce a mood stabilizer to help manage symptoms more effectively.
Remember, always work closely with your healthcare team and communicate any changes in your mood or symptoms to ensure you receive appropriate and safe treatment for bipolar disorder.