Which of the following is NOT an example of a mood stabilizer?

Sertraline is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and is primarily used as an antidepressant to treat conditions such as major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders. Unlike mood stabilizers, which are aimed at regulating mood fluctuations and are crucial in the management of bipolar disorder, sertraline primarily works by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain to alleviate depressive symptoms.

In contrast, lithium, carbamazepine, and valproic acid are all recognized as mood stabilizers. Lithium is the most established treatment for bipolar disorder, effective in managing both manic and depressive episodes. Carbamazepine and valproic acid are also used in the management of mood disorders, particularly for patients with bipolar disorder who may not respond to lithium.

By focusing on the specific mechanism and intended use of each medication, it is clear that sertraline does not fit into the category of mood stabilizers, distinguishing it from the other options provided.