GEODON is used to treat acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. GEODON is also used as maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder when added to lithium or valproate. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
GEODON is used to treat schizophrenia. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
GEODON is used to treat schizophrenia and acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. GEODON is also used as maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder when added to lithium or valproate. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
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GEODON is used to treat acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. GEODON is also used as maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder when added to lithium or valproate. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
GEODON is used to treat schizophrenia. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
GEODON is used to treat schizophrenia and acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. GEODON is also used as maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder when added to lithium or valproate. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).

There is no cure for bipolar disorder, but it can be treated. Today there is more hope for managing bipolar disorder successfully than ever before.

You can make a difference
Bipolar disorder is a difficult disease to live with. Support from people who care can make a big difference. If you are part of the network of people caring for someone with bipolar disorder, there is much you can do to help that person get better, including:

  • Simply asking what you can do to help
  • Offering to go along on doctor visits
  • Assisting with daily activities
  • Helping keep track of symptoms and/or medicine schedules. Download the daily diary (PDF). Use it to help the person you care for record their symptoms. And to keep track of medicine and events that affect their mood. Bring the diary to appointments. It can help the doctor provide the best treatment

Your support may help lower the chance that symptoms will return.

“My sister’s family is like an anchor for me. We look out for each other.”

—Lauren*

Be positive and supportive
Bipolar disorder can make it hard for a person to lead a productive life. It’s important to work with the doctor to find an appropriate treatment plan. Remind the person you care for to follow the doctor’s advice on how best to take their medicine. And remind them that medicine is an important part of their overall treatment success.

Not sure if it’s bipolar disorder?
If you think that someone you care about has bipolar disorder but you are not sure, encourage them to see a doctor. A family doctor is a good place to start. This doctor may then refer you to a psychiatrist. You may want to offer to go along on this doctor visit.

At the visit, talk about any symptoms you’ve noticed, since the person you care for may not recognize these symptoms or think to mention them. Your input can help the doctor make the right diagnosis—which is important for effective treatment.

Know the symptoms of bipolar disorder
It is important that you and the person you care for learn to recognize the symptoms of bipolar disorder. If you notice a change in their mood, tell the doctor right away. Because the doctor could help prevent a mood swing from becoming a full-blown episode.

Know what to do in emergencies
People with bipolar disorder—and their friends and family—should know that there are times when medical attention is needed right away. This may mean calling 911 or going to the emergency room. Signs that emergency help is needed include: thoughts of suicide, thoughts of self-harm, or violent behavior.

“Work with the person you care for to determine what to do in case of a severe episode. Discuss things like when and who to call for help, and which treatments they’re comfortable with and why.”

—Dr. Suarez†

Crisis plan
It’s important to have a plan that guides you regarding what to do in the event of an emergency. Download the crisis plan (PDF) and fill it out, so you and your family will be prepared in advance if you need help.

* Based on conversations with real caregivers and patients.
† Dr. Suarez is a practicing psychiatrist. He did not treat the patients depicted on this Web site. Dr. Suarez received compensation from Pfizer, the makers of GEODON, for his contributions to this site.

Next: Working with the doctor

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E-mail a friend |       
GEODON is used to treat acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. GEODON is also used as maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder when added to lithium or valproate. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
GEODON is used to treat schizophrenia. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
GEODON is used to treat schizophrenia and acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. GEODON is also used as maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder when added to lithium or valproate. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
Recognizing episodes
Taking care of yourself
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