Which medication is commonly prescribed for treating mania in bipolar disorder?

Carbamazepine is commonly prescribed for treating mania in bipolar disorder because it acts as a mood stabilizer and helps to control manic episodes. This medication is particularly effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of manic symptoms and has been shown to improve mood stability in individuals with bipolar disorder.

Carbamazepine works by modulating neurotransmitter activity in the brain, influencing sodium channels and potentially reducing excitability in neural circuits that are hyperactive during manic episodes. Its ability to stabilize mood makes it a valuable treatment option for patients experiencing the manic phase of bipolar disorder.

In contrast, the other medications listed are primarily used for different mental health conditions. Fluoxetine, an antidepressant, is typically used to treat depression and some anxiety disorders but is not a first-line treatment for mania. Trazodone is primarily used for depression and insomnia, whereas tranylcypromine, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), is used for major depressive disorder. These medications do not have the specific mood-stabilizing effects that are necessary for effectively managing manic episodes within the context of bipolar disorder.