 |
= Possible disadvantage that is serious and may involve stopping medication. |
 |
= Possible disadvantage that can be managed/tolerated. |
 |
= Possible advantage. |
| LITHIUM | LAMOTRIGINE | QUETIAPINE | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Effectiveness | Effective against both hypomania and depression relapse. | More effective against depression relapse. Uncertain how effective against hypomanic relapse. | Effective against both hypomania and depression relapse. |
| Tolerance of side effects | 84 in 100 people | 91 in 100 people | 92-94 in 100 people |
| Cognitive ‘dulling’ (i.e. difficulties thinking) | 20-25 in 100 people | No link | 5-16 in 100 people |
| Sleepiness/drowsiness | 13 in 100 people | No link | 6-19 in 100 people |
| Weight gain (> 7% of body weight) | 10-12 in 100 people | No link | 6-10 in 100 people |
| Toxicity/safety |
Under-active thyroid = 13-14 in 100 people Chronic kidney disease = 1-2 in 100 people Complete kidney failure = ~ 5 in 1000 people |
Non-serious rash = 8-9 in 100 people. Serious rash = 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 1000 people. |
Metabolism changes = 7-15 in 100 people |
| Long-term monitoring | Required |
Generally not required. Remain alert to rash. |
Required |
| Time to take effect |
Longer time to take full effect than some other medications. |
Longer time to take full effect than some other medications. |
Shorter time to take full effect than some other medications. |
| Cost/affordability |
PBS subsidised. Costs less than some other medications. |
Not PBS subsidised for BPII. Costs more than some other medications. |
Not PBS subsidised for BPII unless used as an add-on to other medications. Costs more than some other medications. |