Introduction
Alcohol and drug use can be dangerous for individuals taking medications to treat bipolar disorder, it’s important to understand the dangers of combining substance abuse and bipolar medication. It is important to carefully follow the recommended treatment plan, which may include mood stabilisers such as lithium, valproic acid and lamotrigine.
Read on to find out more about the specific dangers of mixing drugs and alcohol with the three most common mood stabilisers.
Alcohol and lithium
Lithium is a commonly prescribed mood stabiliser for the treatment of bipolar disorder. However, alcohol and drug use can interfere with the effectiveness of lithium. Alcohol can increase the risk of lithium toxicity, which can cause symptoms such as tremors, seizures and even coma. This can be particularly dangerous for individuals with kidney or thyroid problems, as these conditions can exacerbate the risk of lithium toxicity.
Alcohol and valproic acid
Valproic acid is another mood stabiliser used to treat bipolar disorder. Alcohol can also interfere with the effectiveness of this medication, as it can increase the risk of liver damage and pancreatitis. It is important to avoid alcohol while taking valproic acid.
Alcohol and lamotrigine
Lamotrigine is a mood stabiliser that is effective in the treatment of bipolar disorder. However, alcohol and drug use can also interfere with the effectiveness of this medication. Alcohol can increase the risk of dizziness, drowsiness and other side effects.
Drug abuse and mood stabilisers
Using drugs such as marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin can be dangerous for individuals taking medications to treat bipolar disorder, such as lithium, valproic acid and lamotrigine. These drugs can interfere with the effectiveness of the mood stabilisers and may even increase the risk of negative side effects.
Marijuana
Marijuana, for example, can interfere with the effectiveness of lithium and valproic acid. It can also increase the risk of cognitive impairment and psychosis in individuals with bipolar disorder.
Methamphetamine and cocaine
Methamphetamine and cocaine are powerful stimulants, which can exacerbate the symptoms of bipolar disorder and lead to manic episodes. These drugs can also interfere with the effectiveness of lithium and valproic acid.
Heroin
Heroin can also have a negative impact on the treatment of bipolar disorder. It can interfere with the effectiveness of lithium and valproic acid and may increase the risk of negative side effects. In addition, heroin use can lead to addiction and other serious health problems.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines, such as Valium and Xanax, are often prescribed for the treatment of anxiety and insomnia. However, these drugs can interfere with the effectiveness of mood stabilisers and may increase the risk of negative side effects. They can also be addictive and should be used with caution in individuals taking medications for bipolar disorder.
Conclusion
It is understandable that people with bipolar disorder may be tempted to use alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with their symptoms.
However, it is important to remember that these substances can significantly interfere with the effectiveness of mood stabilisers and may even be dangerous.
If you are struggling with substance abuse or addiction while taking medications for bipolar disorder, it is important to seek help from a healthcare provider or a mental health professional. They can work with you to develop a treatment plan that is safe and effective.