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Bipolar Medications and Menopause The hormone fluctuations of perimenopause and menopause can cause mood disorders in any woman—not just those with bipolar disorder. However, for those already having troubles with major depression, bipolar disorder or anxiety disorders there usually is an increase in symptoms during this time. Especially during perimenopause, women may be especially vulnerable to depressive symptoms because of declining estrogen levels.
During menopause, hormone therapy may help. A change in antidepressant or mood stabilizing drug also may be the answer. With either individual or group therapy, women can gain support and insight into life transitions that may be adding greater stress to their lives, making their depression worse.
More resources on bipolar disorder
SOURCES: WebMD Medical Reference with The Cleveland Clinic: "Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depressive Disorder)." WebMD Assess Plus: Bipolar Disorder Assessment. National Institute for Mental Health: "Step-BD Womens Studies." Massachusetts General Hospital Bipolar Clinic & Research Program. MedicineNet.com: "Bipolar Disorder (Mania)." WebMD Medical Reference with The Cleveland Clinic: "Effects of Untreated Depression." American Psychiatric Association: "Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients With Bipolar Disorder."
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Edited by David H. Fram, MD, on September 1, 2006; reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Psychiatry and Psychology
WebMD Medical Reference provided in collaboration with The Cleveland Clinic. Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000–2005
