I have had bipolar disorder to my knowledge since the age of 21, I am now 36.

A physician recommended trileptal for me last year. This medication was first developed as an answer to epilepsy. So, in my humble non-professional opinion, it is still in the experimental phase. I would suggest finding a holistic physician, discussing openly your bipolar disorder. I am taking lithium now and it is very effective for my bipolar disorder. And I was also prescribed zyprexa for my stages of mania. However, I am very much opposed to any pharmacuetical medication. Lithium is an element on the periodic table and was used by ancient cultures as a salt, what modern society uses today is sodium chloride. It is drying my skin and I have a bit of a rash. I am looking for another natural alternative. Western physicians can only prescribe medications okayed by the fda and will not recommend healthier alternatives not approved. A social worker gave me information on st. Johns wort, kava, and valerian root as healthy alternatives. But - get a medical professional's opinion. I know that I have a tendancy to "play doctor". But my experience with physicians has been one of mistrust as most are all too willing to write that prescription before listening to their patients. So I am very careful who I select as my physician. I have found a great physician, but I also consult a homeopthic physician for possible alternatives. Although I will keep lithium until I have an okay from a physician.

Learn as much as you can about all the medications prescribed to you. It is our disease, the doctors unless they have bipolar disorder can only do their job.