Mood stabilizers are medications that are used to treat symptoms of mood disorders such as bipolar disorder and depression. They work by altering the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that affect mood and emotions. There are different types of mood stabilizers, including lithium, valproic acid, and anticonvulsants.

Indications for mood stabilizers are primarily bipolar disorder and severe depression. They can also be used to treat other conditions such as mania, schizoaffective disorder, and borderline personality disorder.

Common side effects of mood stabilizers can include drowsiness, weight gain, and tremors. They can also lead to other side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, hair loss, and changes in the thyroid and liver function.