Which medication class is used in conjunction with mood stabilizers to treat manic episodes in bipolar disorder?

Antipsychotics are commonly used in conjunction with mood stabilizers to treat manic episodes in bipolar disorder. This approach is based on the understanding that antipsychotic medications can effectively reduce the symptoms of mania, such as elevated mood, increased energy, and impulsiveness. They help stabilize mood and manage psychotic features (if present) that often accompany severe disturbances during manic episodes.

Antipsychotics can provide rapid relief of symptoms and are sometimes used in acute settings to ensure the safety and stabilization of the patient. Certain antipsychotics are even approved specifically for the treatment of bipolar mania, making them a first-line option alongside mood stabilizers for managing this condition.

In contrast, other classes like SSRIs and tricyclics are typically utilized more for depressive episodes and can potentially exacerbate mania when used alone in bipolar disorder. MAOIs, while effective for depression, are not commonly prescribed for the manic phase of bipolar disorder due to dietary restrictions and side effects. Thus, antipsychotics are the most appropriate and reliable choice for managing manic episodes alongside mood stabilizers.