Any pharmaceutical drug treatment for BPD must be individualized and closely monitored by a trained mental healthcare provider.
Can Medications Help Treat BPD?
While its not considered the first-line treatment, there are some medications that may help some people with BPD.
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Antidepressantsspecifically,selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors(SSRIs) andmonoamine oxidase inhibitors(MAOIs)have been most studied.
SSRIs work primarily by increasing serotonin levels (a neurotransmitter thats important for mood management).
MAOIs
MAOIs were the first drugs on the market for treating depression.
They are also used to treat other psychiatric disorders, includingpanic disorderandsocial phobia.
This action increases levels of these neurotransmitters and lets them work on brain cells affected by depression.
There are different MAOIs.
Two that have been studied in BPD are:
MAOIs are not the first choice of treatment for depression.
These medications are also linked to major drug interactions and can triggerhigh blood pressureif dietary restrictions are not followed.
SSRIs
SSRIs work by increasing available serotonin levels in the brain.
This neurotransmitter is thought to have a positive effect on mood, sleep, and emotion regulation.
The side effects of SSRIs are usually only temporary and mild.
Mood stabilizers are traditionally used to treat affective disorders like bipolar disorder.
About 36% of BPD patients take mood stabilizers.
Their use should be closely monitored by a provider.
Side effects of these medications include slowness, stiffness, tremor, and restlessness.
With long-term use, there is a risk of tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements that can be permanent).
Anti-anxiety medications work by increasingGABAa natural calming agent that reduces brain activity.
General side effects of anti-anxiety medications include feelings of sleepiness, fatigue, and mental fogginess or grogginess.
Anti-anxiety medications can also build up in a persons system over time.
Long-term use is associated with sleep issues, memory issues, emotional dysregulation, and dependence.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, dial988to contact the988 Suicide & Crisis Lifelineand connect with a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call911.
The service is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The main treatment for BPD is talk therapy (psychotherapy).
Do not change your dose or suddenly stop taking your BPD medication without talking to your provider first.
They may have resources that can help you pay for your prescriptions.
While they can have benefits, medications also come with side effects and risks to consider.
If youre not sure if your BPD medication is helping, talk to your provider.
Never change your dose or stop taking your BPD medication without asking your provider first.
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