What is the generic name for the medication commonly used to treat manic episodes in bipolar disorder?

Lithium is recognized as the primary medication for treating manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder. It is classified as a mood stabilizer and works by influencing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly serotonin and norepinephrine. This stabilization helps to reduce the intensity and frequency of manic and depressive episodes, making it an essential part of long-term management for individuals with bipolar disorder. The effectiveness of lithium in mood stabilization has been well-documented through numerous studies, establishing its role as a first-line treatment.

In contrast, haloperidol is an antipsychotic that may be used for managing acute mania, but it does not provide the same long-term mood stabilization as lithium. Buprenorphine is an opioid medication primarily used for pain management and opioid dependence, and it is not indicated for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic used mainly to treat hypertension and fluid retention, and it has no role in the treatment of bipolar disorder. Therefore, lithium stands out as the correct choice for managing manic episodes in the context of bipolar disorder.