Depakote was compared to placebo in 16 borderline patients. 12 were given Depakote and 4 were given a placebo. Treatment with divalproex sodium may be more effective than placebo for global symptomatology, level of functioning, aggression, and depression. Neuroleptics have a modest, but broad therapeutic effect on symptoms in all domains. Doses are lower than those used for treating schizophrenia.
Antidepressants have a more inconsistent effect.
Lithium has a possible effect in diminishing anger and suicidal symptoms. Symptoms associated with BPD and dysthymia were among those to be substantially reduced. Further studies to explore olanzapine's efficacy versus placebo, as well as comparison to other potential treatments for BPD, are important next steps. BPD and PTSD consumers many times experience dissociative symptoms, including flashbacks. Six of 9 patients reported a decrease in the mean number of flashbacks per day.