Yeah, weight gain can be really bad with mood stabilizers for bipolar. I was on Risperdal for two months and gained ~30 pounds. I'm now off it and 20 pounds down... I take Lithium and Saphris (and cogentin to prevent side effects). I don't think that they make me hungrier. Also, if you lose weight, your meds will work MUCH better. Sound mind, sound body is very true. I noticed that whenever I've been fat (I'm a former elite athlete), I get depressive episodes. My staying fit, I've prevented depressive episodes. When I'm fit though, I can get a little manic as I think I'm better than everyone else though, lol.. Also, you can't EVER drink on anti psychotics and mood stabilizers without the high possibility of a depressive episode. I think sugary and fatty food can have a similar negative effect. Also, anti-depressants can cause bipolar episodes when starting and changing dosages.

Point is, Saphris (a relatively newer drug) has worked great for me since December. I don't think lithium does much of anything for me, but I take it anyway. Remember, meds work differently for everyone and that trying different meds may be important to find the right ones. Talk to your doctor, don't get so bipolar that your meds are changed in a mental hospital!! Focus on things in your life you can change; drinking, eating, exercising, sleeping, etc. See how that helps. Finally, changing meds CAN be very dangerous.