One study of patients using lithium found that patients may quit or discontinue the use of a prescribed medication over time. The exact nature of the mechanisms of action with these drugs is unknown. The activity within the neurons of the brain, specifically the neurotransmitters are effected-which generally slow or inhibit mental processes. All of these drugs slow, or inhibit the mania activity within the brain. During initial or repeat hospitalization, patients may also require antipsychotic drugs to control thought processes using drugs like haldol or other medications to help the patient regain better thought and mind control against mania episodes.
Many researchers believe that bipolar-illness is a hereditary disease.
Tracing the family histories of bipolar-illness and depression can be seen to develop in future generations, possibly skip a generation. One theory being pursued now is that bipolar illness becomes more severe or has an earlier onset if it is directly passed down within the family. Accordingly younger generations suffer more acutely from this illness due to a change in the size of hereditary genes. Current research studies are being conducted with elaborate chemical studies of the body using deoxyribonucleic acid or DNA, and hereditary factors. DNA research has produced some irregular results in testing and conclusive evidence.