Grithnir: I have told this to my nurse what I have read but she said she spent plenty of time in school and had him on the right anti-depressant.

It doesn't sound like she's open to considering that maybe he's not.

My understanding of anti-depressants is they need to be used selectively in those with bipolar disorder as they can trigger a manic episode. Everyone's body responds differently and I do know there are people here who use medications from a variety of classes. Of course it's not a matter of simply taking medication as directed -- people need to be closely monitored to see if the medication is doing what it's supposed to be doing or if it's producing any negative effects that are intolerable or dangerous. As a caregiver, you're going to be interacting with your friend much more than his nurse is so I think you're wise to be keeping an eye on things and to challenge the nurse if you are concerned.

Incidentally, my child currently uses Depakote and Seroquel. They have had some very negative responses to anti-psychotics in the past but so far, they feel this combination is working well for them. The Seroquel has a particularly strong sedative effect -- more so than the Depakote for them.

Meantime, here's some links that are good for helping others research medications: