Anticonvulsants are a class of drug primarily used to treat seizures associated with disorders such as epilepsy. However, these medications may also be used to treat certain mental health conditions.

For example, certain anticonvulsants are used as mood stabilizers to treat bipolar disorder. Because anticonvulsants inhibit arousal, they may also be prescribed to treat sleep disorders related to bipolar disorder, restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder.

Anticonvulsants are also used to treat personality disorders, especially borderline personality disorder (BPD). These medications help suppress impulsive and aggressive behaviors associated with personality disorders.

There are many different types of anticonvulsants, and they are available in tablet, capsule and liquid form. It is not well understand how these medications work. Anticonvulsants used to treat mental health disorders include: