What is the primary treatment for bipolar disorder mentioned in the flashcards?

Lithium is the primary treatment for bipolar disorder. It has been extensively studied and is widely recognized for its effectiveness in stabilizing mood and reducing the frequency and intensity of manic and depressive episodes in individuals with this condition. It works by influencing neurotransmitter activity in the brain, helping to balance mood fluctuations characteristic of bipolar disorder.

The choice of lithium as a first-line treatment is backed by its long history of use and established clinical guidelines. Patients may experience significant improvements in their symptoms with lithium therapy, and it can help prevent relapse in those who have previously experienced episodes of mania or depression.

In contrast, the other medications mentioned serve different purposes. Divalproex is also used for mood stabilization but is more commonly indicated for certain types of seizures and can be effective for some patients with bipolar disorder. Xanax and Klonopin are both benzodiazepines primarily used for anxiety disorders; they do not address the underlying mood instability of bipolar disorder and are not first-line treatments for this condition.