Which drug class predominantly focuses on the regulation of mood and preventing mood swings?

Mood stabilizers are the drug class primarily designed to regulate mood and prevent mood swings, specifically in conditions such as bipolar disorder. These medications help to smooth out the extreme highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression) that are characteristic of mood disorders. Their primary mechanism involves modulating neurotransmitter systems, which leads to a stabilization of mood over time.

This is different from antidepressants, which are mainly used to treat depressive episodes and are not primarily focused on the stabilization of mood in the context of mood disorders. Antipsychotics primarily manage symptoms of psychosis, such as hallucinations and delusions, rather than directly stabilizing mood. Stimulants, often prescribed for conditions like ADHD, act to increase alertness and focus, and are not intended for mood regulation. Therefore, mood stabilizers uniquely fit the role of regulating mood fluctuations and maintaining a balanced emotional state.