Final answer:
For bipolar depression, lithium is combined with antipsychotics or other mood stabilizers to enhance treatment effects and manage symptoms. Antidepressants are used cautiously and require careful monitoring by a healthcare provider.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the treatment of bipolar depression, lithium is often used as a mood stabilizer to help manage the manic and depressive phases. While lithium is a cornerstone agent for bipolar disorder, it may be used in conjunction with other medications to optimize treatment outcomes. Options include antipsychotics, which can help with mood stabilization and psychotic symptoms; antidepressants, which may be used carefully due to the risk of inducing mania; and other mood stabilizers. It is crucial to have discussions with a healthcare provider about medications and vitamins currently being taken, the dangers of self-medication, the importance of not stopping antidepressants without medical assistance, and promptly reporting problems with any prescribed medications. Those under 25 should also be aware of the FDA black-box warning for antidepressants.