Medication
Following the diagnosis, individuals may receive prescriptions for medications aimed at alleviating certain symptoms associated with BPD. Although there is no officially approved medication specifically for treating BPD, there are medications available to assist in alleviating symptoms. Given that each person is unique, some individuals may experience varying symptoms or different levels of severity, necessitating the use of different medications or the exploration of multiple options before finding the most suitable one.
There exists a wide range of medications available for the treatment of mental health conditions, making it challenging to comprehend their specific functions and determine the most suitable ones for each individual. Generally, three primary categories of medication are prescribed, alongside the possibility of receiving anti-anxiety medication to alleviate panic attacks, severe anxiety, or nightmares/night terrors.
Due to the wide range of symptoms experienced by individuals with BPD, the specialist will consider multiple factors to determine the most effective treatment approach for the individual. As part of the diagnostic process, the GP will have already evaluated the medical history, overall health and well-being, any pre-existing conditions, and the medications currently prescribed.
In addition to this information, the doctor will seek guidance from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE), which provides recommendations for the treatment and medication of various medical conditions, as followed by all medical professionals.
Antidepressants
These medications are used to treat depression, and the depressive symptoms associated with other conditions including personality and mood disorders. Numerous types of antidepressants are available, and it may be necessary for the individual to trydifferent options under the guidance of their doctor, until they discover the most suitable one that effectively alleviates their symptoms.
It is crucial to continue taking antidepressants for a few weeks in order for them to have an effect. Abruptly stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms, hence it is important to consult with the GP if the individual feels that something is not right.
Antidepressants function by elevating the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, thereby aiding in the alleviation of depressive symptoms and enhancing one’s mood.
Antipsychotics
Antipsychotics are prescribed for the treatment of psychosis, a condition characterized by hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that do not exist) and delusions or paranoia (holding beliefs that are not based in reality).
These medications effectively manage the symptoms and empower individuals to regain control over their distressing experiences. Additionally, antipsychotics may be utilized by specialists to address manic episodes.
Mood stabilisers
A significant number of individuals diagnosed with BPD frequently experience intense periods of heightened mood (mania) and periods of profound sadness (depression). Occasionally, there may be a swift transition from mania to depression, and vice versa, occurring within hours or even days. Mood stabilizers play a crucial role in regulating these intense mood swings and are commonly prescribed in conjunction with antidepressants and/or antipsychotics.