Which medication is prescribed for bipolar disorder and may also affect other medications due to its metabolic pathways?

The medication that is commonly prescribed for bipolar disorder and can affect other medications due to its metabolic pathways is fluoxetine. Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) utilized primarily for treating depression, anxiety disorders, and essential for managing bipolar disorder in conjunction with mood stabilizers.

One significant aspect of fluoxetine is its extensive involvement in the cytochrome P450 metabolic pathways, particularly CYP2D6. This means that fluoxetine can influence the metabolism of other drugs that are processed by the same pathway. When someone takes fluoxetine alongside other medications that rely on CYP2D6 for metabolism, it can lead to increased levels of these drugs in the body, potentially causing adverse effects or enhancing their effects. This interaction is crucial for healthcare providers to consider when prescribing fluoxetine, as it requires careful management to prevent unintended consequences.

In contrast, the other medications listed do not have the same level of interaction with metabolic pathways as fluoxetine does in relation to bipolar disorder treatment. Codeine is an opioid and primarily used for pain management. Itraconazole is an antifungal medication, and aspirin is an anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet drug. While these medications may have their own interactions, they are not primarily indicated for bipolar