Lamictal (lamotrigine) is immensely popular among American psychiatrists. A recent survey found that it is prescribed more frequently than any other mood stabilizer (Clin Psychiatry News, June 2008, page 1).

While we have become sensitized to worrying about weight gain caused by antipsychotics, this side effect does occur with standard mood stabilizers as well. Recently, a comprehensive literature review was published evaluating the weight gain liabilities of medications commonly used to treat bipolar disorder (Torrent et al., Acta Psychiatrica Scand 2008;118:4-18). Here is what they found.

We often see teenagers with co-occurring bipolar disorder and aggressive/impulsive behaviors. While Depakote is often effective, we also often prescribe atypical antipsychotics. A new post-hoc analysis provides some
evidence to bolster that practice.