Women and men respond to psychiatric medications differently. In this first of a four-part series, Chris Aiken and Kellie Newsome walk through why valproate is risky for women, and when it’s worth using; why the FDA cut the zolpidem dose in half for female patients, and why SSRIs outperform tricyclics in women with depression. Plus: a sneak preview of DSM-6.

Mania requires rapid treatment, but side effects often undermine adherence. Learn practical strategies to improve tolerability and when to consider off-label or behavioral options.

Lithium’s reputation for harsh side effects keeps many patients away—but most are manageable with smart, evidence-based care.

Lithium, pramipexole, bupropion, carbamazepine, valproate, and trazodone. Meds that require special skill to start: 

“When I’m manic, I feel like I put on Superman’s vest.” 

That’s how one patient explained why he didn’t want to stay on lithium. He wasn’t denying the crashes. He just wasn’t ready to give up the highs.
Another described it differently:
“If you take too much of it you're slightly underwater, but if you take too little you're floating three feet above the water.”

It’s gaining popularity as a “natural” form of lithium, but this over-the-counter form has hidden risks.