I have to disagree with Supanova that your medication isn't working if you go manic while taking them. That's a too simplistic way of seeing things. Sometimes your psychiatrist will start you on a low dose, to see if you are experiencing side effects and/or to let your body get used to the medication. For example, I have BP2, and I experienced hypomania while on a low dose of Trileptal. However, if the medication works (and I know that mine is stabilizing me), your manic and hypomanic episodes should subside (or become more manageable).