Lithium has been shown to be a very effective form of treatment for individuals with bipolar disorders in either manic or depressive episodes. Bipolar patients who maintain their lithium medication are also less likely to suffer a relapse. The side effects of lithium include memory impairment, weight gain, and impaired coordination. Many individuals, because of these negative side effects, fail to comply with the medication. Some individuals, especially those who possess both manic and schizophrenic symptoms, or who rapidly alternate between manic and depressive episodes, also exhibit a non- response to the medication and do not show improvement. Anticonvulsant drugs such as carbamazepine (Tegretol) and valporic acid (Depakene) are another form of drug therapy. Common side effects of anticonvulsants include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Like lithium, these drugs not only reduce the severity and frequency of relapse, but can also help alleviate manic episodes.

Both interpersonal therapy and cognitive therapy are also used in conjunction with biological intervention. Cognitive therapy helps patients to cope with stressful life events and fears of taking medication. Interpersonal therapy focuses on monitoring and handling the relationship between social interactions and behavior during episodes and maintaining normal patterns of both sleep and work. Electro-convulsive therapy (ECT) has also been shown to be effective in the treatment of bipolar mood disorders.