Some combinations of medications and moods can make it difficult to sleep, if you have bipolar disorder. One must use caution when taking over the counter sedatives, as these can have a negative affect on mood, in addition to being addictive. Here are some common medications that a psychiatrist may prescribe to treat anxiety and insomnia in bipolar disorder.
Anti-Anxiety Medications
Antianxiety drugs slow down the nervous system, which reduces the nervous response that creates anxiety. It appears that these medications function primarily by controlling the level of the amino acid GABA, which calms the central nervous system.
Valium, Klonopin, Ativan, and Xanax are four common antianxiety and antiseizure drugs, which have the side effects of severe sedation and possible addiction if taken over long period of time.
Sedatives
While it is much rarer for psychiatrists to prescribe sedatives for those of bipolar disorder, it sometimes happens. When they do prescribe such medications, it is usually only for short period of time in order to treat insomnia.
Two common brands of prescription sleep aids include Ambien and Restoril, which will cure insomnia, but carry the risk of dependency, if taken over long periods time.
It is important to keep in mind that tranquilizers and sleep agents are not usually prescribed for those of bipolar disorder, as there is a large risk of dependency. These drugs can also cause moods to spiral out of control. These drugs should only be given to bipolars in order to fix panic attacks or insomnia.