Bipolar disorder, also known as
manic depression, is a serious brain disease that causes extreme shifts in mood, energy, and functioning. Currently, it is thought that bipolar disorder may be at least partially genetic. Bipolar disorder is different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through -- the symptoms of bipolar disorder are more severe. Episodes of mania and depression typically recur throughout the affected person's lifespan. Between episodes, most people with bipolar disorder are free of symptoms. Effective
bipolar disorder treatment usually involves a combination of psychotherapy and
bipolar medications.
Healthcare providers often recommend Abilify for bipolar disorder to treat acute episodes of mania or mixed episodes (which involve symptoms of both mania and depression). The medication is also approved for continued use once the acute episode has improved.
(Click Abilify Uses to learn more about other approved uses for this medication and to find out how Abilify works for these various conditions.)
