How Long Should I Stay on Mood Stabilisers?
How long you take mood stabilisers depends on several factors and should always be discussed with your doctor.
Your decision should take into account how well the medicine is working, any side effects, and your past experiences with medication.
Here are some common timeframes your doctor may suggest:
- For bipolar disorder, lithium is often taken long-term to lower the risk of relapse. Doctors usually recommend staying on it for at least six months before reviewing its effect.
- If you’ve been stable for several years, you can discuss with your doctor whether continuing or stopping is right for you.
- If you do stop mood stabilisers, tapering off slowly is safest. You’ll need ongoing monitoring afterwards to watch for signs of relapse.
Stopping Mood Stabilisers Safely
If you’re thinking about stopping your medication, always speak to your doctor first. They can create a withdrawal plan that includes how to spot early signs of relapse and what to do if symptoms return.
Keeping track of how you’re feeling can help. A mood diary is useful for this. You can find links to online mood diaries on our resources page.
Lithium: How to Come Off Safely
According to NICE guidelines, lithium should be reduced gradually over at least four weeks. Ideally, this tapering process should last up to three months to lower the risk of relapse.
During this time, your doctor should watch for signs of mania or depression. Lithium does not usually cause physical withdrawal symptoms.
Stopping Anticonvulsants
If you’re taking anticonvulsant mood stabilisers, NICE recommends reducing them slowly over at least four weeks. Coming off too quickly can trigger withdrawal symptoms like:
- Emotional ups and downs
- Anxiety or irritability
- Headaches and dizziness
- Stomach problems
- Brain fog or concentration issues
- Sensory changes
- Sleep problems
- Weight changes
- Muscle pain or weakness
Valproate: Stop with Extra Care
Valproate comes with unique risks. Stopping suddenly can be dangerous. Always work with your doctor on a slow, safe plan. Valproate should only be used under a pregnancy prevention programme. If you think you might be pregnant, contact your doctor immediately.
Coming Off Antipsychotics
NICE recommends reducing antipsychotics gradually over at least four weeks. For more details on potential withdrawal symptoms, see our page on antipsychotic medication.