What Medication Works For Bipolar Disorder?

I haven't been to the doctor in a while, but I recently went to a new one, who I think has me all wrong. I am bipolar, but I think that she diagnosed me with depression and anxiety. She prescribed Lexapro, which is for depression. I haven't taken it yet, 1) because I have been feeling better since then, and 2) because most depression medications haven't worked for me and I don't like dealing with side effects. If you are bipolar, what medication have you found success with?

I have tried several over the past few years and none have really worked. Rigt now im on topamax (which is normally used for migranes) but is used in bipoloar also, along with a small dose of paxil. The side effects were really bad the first two weeks(bad headaches, ringing in the ears, tingling in the tips of fingers and toes, no soda at all - any carbonated beverages taste like blood, but have since gone away, (except for the carbonation thing) and I actually do feel pretty good now. And topamax, is also used as a weight loss pill too!! BONUS!! (they say topamax is similar to depakote without the weight gain)

try lamictal, which is indicated for bipolar.
Risperdal
I have custody of a 13 year old Grandson who has bipolar II and he is doing well on Depakote and Seroquel.

*you also need to have some form of counciling, even if it is only for coping skills
First of all, Depakote ruined my hair. Seroquel gave me terrible nightmares.

Lamictal and Resperdal is what I'm on now and it really works. I also take Lithium. Good Luck!...)(
There is a particularly good site for Bipolar sufferers.It is very informative and should help answer many of your questions.I hope you find it helpful.
www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/bi...