A 28-year-old female with a known history of bipolar I disorder is brought to the clinic by her family, who report she has been increasingly irritable, sleeping only 2-3 hours per night, and spending excessive amounts of money. She talks rapidly and is easily distracted. What is the most appropriate initial pharmacologic treatment for her acute manic episode?
✓ Correct Answer: Option B
The patient is experiencing an acute manic episode. Lithium is a first-line mood stabilizer for acute mania and maintenance treatment in bipolar disorder. Antidepressants (sertraline) are contraindicated in acute mania as they can worsen symptoms.