SSRIs

Question:

Been off for about 11 months now, Hawk…MAOIs seem to work better for me. Jim "…sick of living unwilling to die" Words scratched into a Riverside, CA library desk. Attributed to the Zodiac, 1967.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I went off 375 mg Effexor cold turkey and definitely ADA…but it was making > me > so fucking ill every day, I mistrusted anyone who would keep me on it. (I > mean, > I was so sick to my stomach ’cause of all the serotonin stimulation I had > completely stopped eating). > Withdrawal? I was hearing ghosts…awake I was fine, but at night, trying to > sleep I had horrifying auditory hallucinations. Took about ten days… > That and the mania induced by Zoloft have been my worst experiences with ADs. > My new pdoc jokes that we’ll try new medications and with my luck all I’ll get > is the side effects…that isn’t very funny, is it? > Jim > "…sick of living unwilling to die" > Words scratched into a Riverside, CA library desk. Attributed to the Zodiac, > 1967.

Jim;  Instead of getting off the Effexor completely, why not just take less? I only take 75mg/day and I don’t get sick like that. Just a suggestion. Hawk

Response:

I became permanent in a Pre-IPO internet startup, so by going salary, I get a lot of stock options.  Lithium makes me feel hot all the time, so here in Texas in the 110 degree heat, it’s sucking real hard. Thanks Karubin

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I know how you feel…hang in there man! > Calvin > Yeah…don’t have much choice, do I? It’s really odd, though… > considering the wide variety of drugs people tend to get better > on…and the wonder stories I hear of people getting MUCH better, one > would figure that I would have hit upon least one thing in the past six > years that would do the trick….scratch that, the Seroquel helps a bit. > I’m not working right now…when I was working the anxiety was > unbearable…now the anxiety about NOT working is just toxic. > Why did you go to salary? It sounds to me like you work long & hard > enough that hourly & OT would be more profitable. > Before you buy.

Response:

I was on 225 mg a day of Effexor.  Everytime I just quit I started getting these weird sensations that felt like a thousand little pin-pricks up and down my body, but mostly on my scalp and down my backbone.  Everytime I yawned, I would get this little tremor-like shake.  How I quit?  I dropped my dosage down a little at a time and would stay on it for a week.  When I got down to 75 mg, I would open up the capsule(i had time release) and empty 1/4 out for a while.  Then I started emptying 1/2 out.  After that, I took the "half" amout whenever I felt tremors or those weird sensations, which was by that point every 1 and 1/2 days.  After a couple of those, it went to every 3 days and then nothing.  I had no withdrawals by the time I quit. The only drug I took during this process is Clonazepam (Klonopin).  That is for my anxiety.  After being at 150 mg and starting downward, the entire process took 2 and 1/2 to 3 weeks Karubin

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> My pdoc wanted to take me off Effexor. Actually > we tried to  wean me off it a couple months ago. I could not get below > 75mg. I am on 150mg now. So, he put me on Lamictal increasing it and he > was going to start weaning me off it again. When I noticed I wouldn’t be > well when my daughter would be having a baby I was able to stay on my > regime for awhile longer. > MY QUESTION IS: how many mg. of effexor were you on. And how did you get > off. What was it totally like withdrawing. I guess I am paranoid. I went > through withdrawl on elavil 10 years ago and it was not fun. Did your > doc give you anything to counteract or help you with withdrawl…. GEE I > AM SO EXCITED CAN’T YOU TELL. Any info would be greatly appreciated. > Thank you, > Mary

Response:

I went off 375 mg Effexor cold turkey and definitely ADA…but it was making me so fucking ill every day, I mistrusted anyone who would keep me on it. (I mean, I was so sick to my stomach ’cause of all the serotonin stimulation I had completely stopped eating). Withdrawal? I was hearing ghosts…awake I was fine, but at night, trying to sleep I had horrifying auditory hallucinations. Took about ten days… That and the mania induced by Zoloft have been my worst experiences with ADs. My new pdoc jokes that we’ll try new medications and with my luck all I’ll get is the side effects…that isn’t very funny, is it? Jim "…sick of living unwilling to die" Words scratched into a Riverside, CA library desk. Attributed to the Zodiac, 1967.

Response:

I know how you feel…hang in there man! Calvin

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I went off 375 mg Effexor cold turkey and definitely ADA…but it was making me > so fucking ill every day, I mistrusted anyone who would keep me on it. (I mean, > I was so sick to my stomach ’cause of all the serotonin stimulation I had > completely stopped eating). > Withdrawal? I was hearing ghosts…awake I was fine, but at night, trying to > sleep I had horrifying auditory hallucinations. Took about ten days… > That and the mania induced by Zoloft have been my worst experiences with ADs. > My new pdoc jokes that we’ll try new medications and with my luck all I’ll get > is the side effects…that isn’t very funny, is it? > Jim > "…sick of living unwilling to die" > Words scratched into a Riverside, CA library desk. Attributed to the Zodiac, > 1967.

Response:

Karubin, Yeah, the rather unfortunate side effect of bipolar illness is that (at least some of the time), one IS aware of having the illness because it makes one so goddamn miserable. Lithium is not real nice. Almost all of the drugs used to treat bipolar can have some real nasty side-effects. But, it’s better than the side effects of uncontrolled bipolar…which can include jail time, forced hospitalization and suicide. Most of the side effects are easier to take than a police baton across the kidneys. I hope the Li helps the sleeplessness…I find that insomnia and anxiety really hurt. If it doesn’t, make sure your pdoc knows. There are some meds available that can really help and aren’t too expensive. Jim "…sick of living unwilling to die" Words scratched into a Riverside, CA library desk. Attributed to the Zodiac, 1967.

Response:

funny thing is that I only have anxiety when I’m NOT at work.  I guess I’m so busy working on new software or something that I don’t even think about it.  When I have idle time, it kicks into high gear.  I spend most of the time on the high side of BP and can easily work for 20-30 hours straight or 90 hours a week.  Too bad I just switched to salary..:-( Thanks Karubin

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Karubin, > Yeah, the rather unfortunate side effect of bipolar illness is that (at least > some of the time), one IS aware of having the illness because it makes one so > goddamn miserable. > Lithium is not real nice. Almost all of the drugs used to treat bipolar can > have some real nasty side-effects. But, it’s better than the side effects of > uncontrolled bipolar…which can include jail time, forced hospitalization and > suicide. Most of the side effects are easier to take than a police baton across > the kidneys. > I hope the Li helps the sleeplessness…I find that insomnia and anxiety really > hurt. If it doesn’t, make sure your pdoc knows. There are some meds available > that can really help and aren’t too expensive. > Jim > "…sick of living unwilling to die" > Words scratched into a Riverside, CA library desk. Attributed to the Zodiac, > 1967.

Response:

I have tried almost all the SSRIs, but they had many side effects.  Effexor was hell to quit.  Most of the other people I meet that have Anxiety are very intelligent.  I guess we think about things too much.  Thank you for replying! Karubin

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Yes, yes I research bipolar disorder, and all my meds too. It is good to > keep yourself informed. > It calms me, I just have to not focus on all the adverse side effects. > Unless of corse I am having a problem then look and talk to your pdoc > about it. When I am depressed my brain tends to dwell dwell on certain > issues. It is hard if not impossible to wake up out of there. > I am on lithium too. I started on Effexor, went to lithium then Eskaleth > ( time released lithium) and now I am on Lamictal… Each one does there > own thing on my brain and man, I am so much better finally. Remember, > our illness is like asthma, diabetes, or any life threatening > disease. We need our meds to survive. And I guarentee it would not be > better to be nuts and not realize you are crazy. That is misleading > thought because you would know it ( on some level) and it would be > mental hell but awake. > Been there NEVER want to go back. > I hope you meds are beginning to work. > Good luck on your journey. > Mary

Response:

My pdoc wanted to take me off Effexor. Actually we tried to  wean me off it a couple months ago. I could not get below 75mg. I am on 150mg now. So, he put me on Lamictal increasing it and he was going to start weaning me off it again. When I noticed I wouldn’t be well when my daughter would be having a baby I was able to stay on my regime for awhile longer. MY QUESTION IS: how many mg. of effexor were you on. And how did you get off. What was it totally like withdrawing. I guess I am paranoid. I went through withdrawl on elavil 10 years ago and it was not fun. Did your doc give you anything to counteract or help you with withdrawl…. GEE I AM SO EXCITED CAN’T YOU TELL. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Mary

Response:

Hello, Getting back on lithium again.  Found out my 1st doctor was a quack and my second one looks promising.  I hope it kicks in soon because I would like to be able to go to bed for more than four hours.  I hate always thinking I am going to have a heart attack or cancer.  I think I spend most of my time on the manic side.  I just bought a domain called www.anxietycentral.net and I will probably have it up and running in a couple of weeks.  I don’t know why I’ve got to read and research every thing I take.  Reading about the side effects makes me have more anxiety.  Sometimes I think I just can’t take it any more.  Why do I need to take drugs to lead a normal life?  I think it would be easier to be nuts and just not realize it. karubin

Response:

Yes, yes I research bipolar disorder, and all my meds too. It is good to keep yourself informed. It calms me, I just have to not focus on all the adverse side effects. Unless of corse I am having a problem then look and talk to your pdoc about it. When I am depressed my brain tends to dwell dwell on certain issues. It is hard if not impossible to wake up out of there. I am on lithium too. I started on Effexor, went to lithium then Eskaleth ( time released lithium) and now I am on Lamictal… Each one does there own thing on my brain and man, I am so much better finally. Remember, our illness is like asthma, diabetes, or any life threatening disease. We need our meds to survive. And I guarentee it would not be better to be nuts and not realize you are crazy. That is misleading thought because you would know it ( on some level) and it would be mental hell but awake. Been there NEVER want to go back. I hope you meds are beginning to work. Good luck on your journey. Mary

Response:

Too late. Isabel – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hello, > I think it > would be easier to be nuts and just not realize it. > karubin

Response:

Question:

Hi salarmy, > In the past, I have taken Lithium, Depakote, Tegretol, > Neurontin, Lamictal, Topamax, and a bunch of SSRIs too. > Nothing has seemed to work, even though I am a good patient. >  Like in Lynda’s "21 medications" guidelines, the next step > is the experimental use of calcium channel blockers.

They were authored by James Milton…we all miss his involvement here <sigh>. > So my > doctor first put me on Calan (Verapamil).  These drugs are > used for high blood pressure.  I learned that they have no > horrible side effects unless you take too much of them. > Calan didn’t seem to do much for me, so the doctor put me on > DynaCirc (Isradipine).  I thought– this won’t work–its > just like all the other crap.  My life was miserable. > Within a week on the DynaCirc, I noticed some good effects, > like finding humor in more things.  The dysphoric mood is > slightly lifting.  My doctor then added Adalat CC to > DynaCirc.  It is a once-daily pill.  The short-acting form > of it can kill you, but the long-acting form is benign. > Adalat seems to help too…  I just felt that I had to tell > someone about this.  Thanks for reading.

This is great news :) Peace, Lynda

Response:

In the past, I have taken Lithium, Depakote, Tegretol, Neurontin, Lamictal, Topamax, and a bunch of SSRIs too. Nothing has seemed to work, even though I am a good patient.  Like in Lynda’s "21 medications" guidelines, the next step is the experimental use of calcium channel blockers.  So my doctor first put me on Calan (Verapamil).  These drugs are used for high blood pressure.  I learned that they have no horrible side effects unless you take too much of them. Calan didn’t seem to do much for me, so the doctor put me on DynaCirc (Isradipine).  I thought– this won’t work–its just like all the other crap.  My life was miserable. Within a week on the DynaCirc, I noticed some good effects, like finding humor in more things.  The dysphoric mood is slightly lifting.  My doctor then added Adalat CC to DynaCirc.  It is a once-daily pill.  The short-acting form of it can kill you, but the long-acting form is benign. Adalat seems to help too…  I just felt that I had to tell someone about this.  Thanks for reading. * Sent from AltaVista http://www.altavista.com Where you can also find related Web Pages, Images, Audios, Videos, News, and Shopping.  Smart is Beautiful

Response:

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hello… For several years now I have been trying to asses (spelling?) what > type of problems I have or the roots of them which are related to > depression. I have just recently given in to the possibility that I may be > bipolar myself. >… > I seem to have Body Dysmorphic Disorder, I am addicted to looking in mirrors > and reflective surfaces. When I "deem it" that I look good, or if a female > comes on to me, I feel great about myself. If I happen to have a small > blemish or something, I blow it way out of context and it is enough to send > me into a compleete depressive episode for days, weeks, or until the blemish > is gone. >Is there any possibility that the blemish is preceded by mood change?

Well, I guess that it’s possible. I really can’t tell.. Sometimes I cope with it better than others. >I certainly feel a lot more attractive when I’m on a high.  But when I’m >down, I’m under a lot of stress and more likely to have skin problems and >also to feel worse about them. >(In my case, it’s major skin problems which often lead to bleeding.) >The disapproval and fear of abandonment are typical of the depressive >phase.

Well, I got MAJOR abandonment issues. I always exibit them with girlfriends. I had the same tendencies with my father and mother. I was quite fond of my father and asked him multiple times a day if he still loved me. But I still wonder if its possible to be bipolar but have the mood changes induced by triggers.. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Tom

Response:

>I seem to have Body Dysmorphic Disorder

SSRIs are the standard treatment.

Response:

I’m starting lithium tonight and have cyclothymic personality also.  Have you had any problems with lithium? Calvin

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> This is an interesting line of thought. > Are you certain your moods are triggered by how you look, and not the > other way around? > I am bipolar. Actually, tonight my pdoc said I was "cyclothymic > PLUS"… heh heh… IOW, I’ve probably been cyclothymic all my life, > and the true bipolar episodes only started a few years ago… but > anyway, onwards to my point. > All my life I’ve dealt with a poor body image and high level of > self-conciousness. Not anywhere near what you are describing, but still > not very healthy – particularly because, in truth, my worries are > fairly groundless. Not that I’m a beauty, but I’m cute. I used to > obsess over my weight – and I’ve never really had a weight problem to > begin with. I always figured I had a normal level of body-angst for a > female, although other people have accused me of going overboard. > Interestingly, since starting the lithium, my body worries have > completely evaporated. They’re gone! Despite the fact that I’ve gained > weight on this med, haven’t worked out in a long time, etc. My pants > get tighter and tighter… but it doesn’t bother me anymore. Not only > that, but I look in the mirror, and I don’t mind what I see. I see > roundness that may not be my ideal figure, but has something to > recommend it. My soft muscles are not unappealing to me anymore… soft > is kinda nice. > It kinda crept up on me, this total body acceptance. I’ve never felt > this way about myself before, not even when I was at my ideal weight > and fit and lean! It bemuses me. I’ve wondered if it is because I got > that divorce? But no, I had a bad body image long before I got married. > I’ve wondered if it is because I’ve stopped reading fashion mags (which > can be so friggin depressing). It may be that. Or, just maybe… maybe > it is the lithium? > I’ll be interested in hearing what other bipolars here say. > jen > * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * > The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

Hello… For several years now I have been trying to asses (spelling?) what type of problems I have or the roots of them which are related to depression. I have just recently given in to the possibility that I may be bipolar myself. I have had several therapists and a few have suggested that I MAY have it, but inconclusive up to this point. I guess that I’ll give some characteristics I have and see what you guys think. I seem to have Body Dysmorphic Disorder, I am addicted to looking in mirrors and reflective surfaces. When I "deem it" that I look good, or if a female comes on to me, I feel great about myself. If I happen to have a small blemish or something, I blow it way out of context and it is enough to send me into a compleete depressive episode for days, weeks, or until the blemish is gone. This raises havok on what I feel that other people think of me. I am so paranoid and self concious that I can barely stay at work. When I feel good, damn, its good, I’m on top of the world, I love hanging out with my girlfriend, feel good bout my future and enthuastically persue my studies. But when I feel bad bout myself, I sleep, I lay in bed, I figure some way to get out of work, I am unmotivated to partake in any of my hobbies. The depression is insurmountible. And rationally, I know its over nothing, there is no way a blemish is going to affect the way my girlfriend thinks of me but emotionally it hurts so bad. I am so paranoid that my girlfriend is going to leave me even though, on a daily basis she proves that to be false. Her actions reconfirm the opposite in fact. So is it possible to have bipolar that has both high and low episodes that are induced by triggers? I have gotten to the point where I get scared to feel excited or good for the fear of the fall afterwards. Sorry for talking so much but I do need some objective opinions. Thanx.

Response:

> Hello… For several years now I have been trying to asses (spelling?) what > type of problems I have or the roots of them which are related to > depression. I have just recently given in to the possibility that I may be > bipolar myself. … > I seem to have Body Dysmorphic Disorder, I am addicted to looking in mirrors > and reflective surfaces. When I "deem it" that I look good, or if a female > comes on to me, I feel great about myself. If I happen to have a small > blemish or something, I blow it way out of context and it is enough to send > me into a compleete depressive episode for days, weeks, or until the blemish > is gone.

Is there any possibility that the blemish is preceded by mood change?   I certainly feel a lot more attractive when I’m on a high.  But when I’m down, I’m under a lot of stress and more likely to have skin problems and also to feel worse about them. (In my case, it’s major skin problems which often lead to bleeding.) The disapproval and fear of abandonment are typical of the depressive phase. Tom

Response:

This is an interesting line of thought. Are you certain your moods are triggered by how you look, and not the other way around? I am bipolar. Actually, tonight my pdoc said I was "cyclothymic PLUS"… heh heh… IOW, I’ve probably been cyclothymic all my life, and the true bipolar episodes only started a few years ago… but anyway, onwards to my point. All my life I’ve dealt with a poor body image and high level of self-conciousness. Not anywhere near what you are describing, but still not very healthy – particularly because, in truth, my worries are fairly groundless. Not that I’m a beauty, but I’m cute. I used to obsess over my weight – and I’ve never really had a weight problem to begin with. I always figured I had a normal level of body-angst for a female, although other people have accused me of going overboard. Interestingly, since starting the lithium, my body worries have completely evaporated. They’re gone! Despite the fact that I’ve gained weight on this med, haven’t worked out in a long time, etc. My pants get tighter and tighter… but it doesn’t bother me anymore. Not only that, but I look in the mirror, and I don’t mind what I see. I see roundness that may not be my ideal figure, but has something to recommend it. My soft muscles are not unappealing to me anymore… soft is kinda nice. It kinda crept up on me, this total body acceptance. I’ve never felt this way about myself before, not even when I was at my ideal weight and fit and lean! It bemuses me. I’ve wondered if it is because I got that divorce? But no, I had a bad body image long before I got married. I’ve wondered if it is because I’ve stopped reading fashion mags (which can be so friggin depressing). It may be that. Or, just maybe… maybe it is the lithium? I’ll be interested in hearing what other bipolars here say. jen * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

Question:

My heart goes out to you and your fiance. Anti-depressants can trigger a manic episode, particularly the SSRIs (Paxil, Zoloft, et al). They also may induce or aggravate rapid cycling – moving from the highest high to the lowest low several times in a given time period (which varies from doc to doc. Stress causes me to have manic episodes. My dad died unexpectedly in April, and I acted like a complete nut. Yelling, crying, assuming everyone was out to get me…all this at my father’s funeral. I viewed every new depression as a failure.  That’s because I thought I could make myself stop having them.  Seems wacky now but as you know us BP’s are a creativelot! My doc took me off Paxil, substituted Wellbutrin, and gradually introduced Zoloft. I have been on mood stablizers throughout (Lithium and Depakote).  I haven’t had a manic or depressive episode since November. The biggest thing for me is knowing that people love me even when I don’t. These are the people who remind me that the clouds will lift and life is worth living since my illness has been diagnosed and treated. This is too long, but I’m not going to edit it. If your fiance has a psychiatrist, she should share what you shared here, exploring ways to handle stress.  Good luck! Before you buy.

Response:

YES!!! Paxil and zoloft both did it for me and it has happened bot with and without a mood tabilizer…

Response:

Sorry to hear about your troubles. Anti-depressants without a stabilizer sent me into a hypomanic ride last year. I ended up in the hospital for a month suffering major depression.  They started me on Effexor and I went hypomanic…they refused to put me back on it and tried Wellbutrin with Lithium, Neurontin and Depakote. I was fine for several months then got depressed went back in the hospital and begged them to try Effexor again since it was the only med that turned on the lights in my head. My docs did and I was fine since I had stabilizers. I was off meds for 6 months recently and headed towards trouble. I am now back on Effexor XR with Lithium and Neurontin daily. I feel fine and have been on this regime for 2 months. Sorry for the lengthy story here…We’re all different but my I’ve heard that rapid cycling and mixed state bipolar is the touchiest to treat with a.d’s because they can loft one towards mania. Hope things get better for your loved one. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> hi. > been here before about 8 months ago . my girlfriend was diagnosed bi-polar > then and went through a 2 week / then 8 week spell in hospital . she ended > up being on 1000mg of pridal (litium ) and not sure the mg of effexor . > now she is back in hospital again . Could the effexor have been a > contributing factor ? . > 2nd Q .. > we were due to get married the last time it happened but couldn’t because of > the attack… We were going to my brothers wedding this time and even though > she went through the weekend fine (actually on a bit of a high), a few days > later this happened .  Seeing as she had a 6 year run without an episode > until last march and again now , is it possible that without major events to > trigger the disorder that she can have a relatively normal life or am i just > grabbing at straws? > thanking you > david o mahony

Response:

David, I don’t know the answer to your first question.  I suspect that most antidepressants have the capability of sending BiPolars into mania, but I will leave it to the pros to give you the final say on that one. As far as your girlfriend living a "normal" life between emotional upsets, it’s hard to say.  Even if it were possible to remain stable when things are ducky, how could you or her forsee or stop potential upheaval?  I think your best bet is to arm yourself with as much knowledge as you can about her illness…and her particular patterns…each one of us is different.   If you marry you must be prepared to deal with her illness. Then you must be willing to stick with her even when theings get out of control.  The last thing she needs is her husband abandoning her during a critical episode of depression or mania.   If you are unable to imagine the worst,and still stand by her then I commend you.  If    you can’t than you will be doing a great disservice to the both of  you.  The best of everything and good luck.

Response:

hi. been here before about 8 months ago . my girlfriend was diagnosed bi-polar then and went through a 2 week / then 8 week spell in hospital . she ended up being on 1000mg of pridal (litium ) and not sure the mg of effexor . now she is back in hospital again . Could the effexor have been a contributing factor ? . 2nd Q .. we were due to get married the last time it happened but couldn’t because of the attack… We were going to my brothers wedding this time and even though she went through the weekend fine (actually on a bit of a high), a few days later this happened .  Seeing as she had a 6 year run without an episode until last march and again now , is it possible that without major events to trigger the disorder that she can have a relatively normal life or am i just grabbing at straws? thanking you david o mahony

Response:

Question:

Hello, I am new to yr grp. I have been on Lithium (Priadel) 600mg daily for about 3 yrs and I have found it does seem to impair memory and speed of recall of words to tongue.. Also I think it gives me some numbing in my fingertips which is annoying. However for the time being it seems less obnoxious than most other stabilizers.   Does seem well documented that withdrawal can precipitate a "high" so be careful.

Response:

>Hi, my name is Jac. Meijers from Holland. I’m 39 years old and I use Priadel >(Lithiumcarbonate) during 5 months.

Hi, I take Priadel too >My questions are: >1. Have more persons using Lithium problems with memory, speed of >information processing and tiredness?

Somewhat but I think they all predate my taking Lithium and actually relate to another drug I am taking, Haloperidol (antipsychotic). >2. What are your remarks about the recommendations to reduce the dose >of lithium, addition of thyroid hormone, prescription of a slow release >preparation or replacement of lithium by another moodstabiliser?

I think Priadel is a slow release preparation. >3. What are the experiences of persons using the new moodstabiliser >Depakine?

None. I take Carbemazepine (Tegretol) as well as Lithium and the two together seem to be working OK at the moment. Regards Jackie Web page at http://dspace.dial.pipex.com/town/close/xhq10/mem.htm I’ve been Jay H, Canarybird, Empty Cage, Serin, Phoenix, even Crow. Let’s see if I can stick with this one for a while.

Response:

Dear Jac Meijers, I’ve taken Lithium for over ten years.  I haven’t experienced any "cognitive slow down" or memory problems, but it has impaired my thyroid (I now take Armour thyroid daily), and it has given me psoriasis (which is no fun at all). On the other hand, I have been stable and out of the hospital since I started on Lithium. Robert

Response:

I’m not on Lithium, but my SO takes Eskalith.  It seems to make sense to me that a drug designed to ward of mania would tend to "slow" things down a bit. The skin problems do suck, though.  But I’d say they’re worth the stability. Am I being too simplistic with this?

Response:

Hello everyone and welcome Jacques, I’m new to the group too and am also on Priadel (Lithium carbonate) 1000 mg a day and 40mg fluoxetine (prozac) at the moment. > 1. Have more persons using Lithium problems with memory, speed of > information processing and tiredness?

I haven’t had any problems with memory or speed of information processing. However I have noticed the tiredness.  If nothing exciting is happening I want to fall asleep at 10pm.  I also just need to stop and rest during a normal day much more than I did pre-Lithium. > 2. What are your remarks about the recommendations to reduce the dose > of lithium, addition of thyroid hormone, prescription of a slow release > preparation or replacement of lithium by another moodstabiliser? > 3. What are the experiences of persons using the new moodstabiliser > Depakine?

Sorry, no experience of Depakine or thyroid options. Helen

Response:

I wnat to thank al the persons that have replied on my questions about side effects of Lithium. All these reactions will help me find optimal medication (in consultation with my pdoc). Best regards, Jacques Meijers, Netherlands Jacques Meijers, Netherlands

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http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/htbin-post/Entrez/query?uid=2848165&form=… Dopt=b Lithium Induced Chemical Castration

Response:

Hi, my name is Jac. Meijers from Holland. I’m 39 years old and I use Priadel (Lithiumcarbonate) during 5 months. In my work I have problems with my memory, my speed of information processing and I am very fatigue. In the magazine Int. Clin. Psychopharmacol 1999 May;14(3):167-71 I read the following article: Lithium induced cognitive side-effects in bipolar disorder: a qualitative analysis and implications for daily practice. Honig A, Arts BM, Ponds RW, Riedel WJ. Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, University Hospital Maastricht, The Netherlands. Qualitative analysis of the literature on cognitive side-effects of lithium in patients with a bipolar disorder identified four of 17 studies that fulfilled criteria of adequate methodological quality. Analysis of these four studies showed that lithium had a negative effect on memory and speed of information processing, often without subjective complaints or awareness of mental slowness. The consequences of these findings for daily practice are discussed, in particular with respect to driving performance. When neurocognitive complaints or deficits are present, lithium plasma level, thyroid functions and degree of mood disturbance should be assessed. In cases where all these parameters are within normal limits and neurocognitive complaints still persist, dose reduction of lithium, thyroid hormone addition, prescription of a slow release preparation or replacement of lithium by another moodstabiliser should be considered. Guidelines are suggested with respect to further neuropsychological screening. My questions are: 1. Have more persons using Lithium problems with memory, speed of information processing and tiredness? 2. What are your remarks about the recommendations to reduce the dose of lithium, addition of thyroid hormone, prescription of a slow release preparation or replacement of lithium by another moodstabiliser? 3. What are the experiences of persons using the new moodstabiliser Depakine?

Response:

<snipped for your protection> Welcome to ASDM.  We are not doctors here.  We just play one on TV.  The best I can offer is my opinion and personal experience. We each are different.  For your protection and your knowledge, I suggest doing the research, and talking to your doctor. > 1. Have more persons using Lithium problems with memory, speed of > information processing and tiredness?

I have severe memory problems, however, I had them before lithium (I’ve been treated with lithium for years now).  I process information fine. Cannot concentrate or read… but again, this was present before the lithium.  Tiredness is not a problem, though I simply MUST have a nap at some point during the day.  Sleep is essential for good mental health. > 2. What are your remarks about the recommendations to reduce the dose > of lithium, addition of thyroid hormone, prescription of a slow release > preparation or replacement of lithium by another moodstabiliser?

If your pdoc recommends you decrease your dose, listen to him/her.  As for the addition of thyroid hormone (I speak from YEARS of experience here), that is a medical problem that should be addressed with a regular medical doctor.  By all means have your pdoc test for it.  But don’t allow him to treat.  Sometimes an addition of another moodstabilizer is necessary. > 3. What are the experiences of persons using the new moodstabiliser > Depakine?

I used Depakote at one point.  It didn’t work for me.  YMMV.  It works for many. Linda Briteyes

Response:

Hi Jack, These and many other questions can be answered to the real life support group in our country (I am born and raised in Netherlands too) http://www.nsmd.nl Memory loss and fatigue I have too. Speed of information processing I never noticed before. As for the brand of lithium you better take Camcolit, it’s a lot cheaper! > Hi, my name is Jac. Meijers from Holland. I’m 39 years old and I use Priadel > (Lithiumcarbonate) during 5 months. In my work I have problems with my > memory, my speed of information processing and I am very fatigue. In the > magazine Int. Clin. Psychopharmacol 1999 May;14(3):167-71 I read the > following article: > Lithium induced cognitive side-effects in bipolar disorder: a qualitative > analysis and implications for daily practice. > Honig A, Arts BM, Ponds RW, Riedel WJ.

['Arts' is Dutch word for doctor only to confuse most people here  :)] > Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, University Hospital

[snip] > My questions are: > 1. Have more persons using Lithium problems with memory, speed of > information processing and tiredness?

I already answered that: As with everything YMMV (your mileage may vary). > 2. What are your remarks about the recommendations to reduce the dose > of lithium, addition of thyroid hormone, prescription of a slow release > preparation or replacement of lithium by another moodstabiliser?

Your own pdoc  is the person to discuss this with. BTW you already  take a slowrelease lithium. The brandless lithiumcarbonate has to be taken in doses spread over the day. Chance to forget a dose is bigger. I always take it right before I go to sleep. > 3. What are the experiences of persons using the new moodstabiliser > Depakine?

Depakene (Depakote in most countries) or valproate has different side effects and is not as new anymore. We are pretty far behind. We have only 3 different ood stabilizers. Again like everything: Talk about it to your pdoc. I knew someone who started it because she got problems with her kidneys.

Response:

Question:

Hi Lynda, >1. Effective >2. Ineffective (breakthrough manias, hypomanias, depressions) >3. Inconvenient (adverse side effects) which resulted in termination of >a specific medication

All of the above in varying degrees unfortunately. >Have any of you changed pdocs because of the above occurrances?

Add #2 and #3 to the fact that my first pdoc was an asshole who only cared about his insurance payment and refused to listen  to anyone, including my wife…….yep, I did, after a few visits. Pdoc since then has been fine. I use him mostly for meds, and my therp handles my day to day dementedness<g>. >Finally, wht is the length of time you have been officially diagnosed as >having BP illness?

Just over a year, "Officially", though it was suspected for over a years time before that as well. And I’ve ALWAYS known I was cuckoo!!<G> P/H/L BPBoy "He’s slightly schizophrenic/Me and me and me agree/And you are gonna pay/For what you did to me" -D.Mustaine

Response:

I was diagnosed with BP in Feb 93 although another pdoc gave me tri-cyclics in 88 for depression. Took those for about a year or so. After 93, lithium and SSRIs mostly. The treatment has been somewhat effective for the the last two or so years; I’m not dead yet, and have actually held a job for two years straight, though starting a new one soon. Chloimiprimine (is that it?) gave me tremors and lithium gut trouble and the SSRIs not much of anything. The only pdoc change was from the first one ten years ago to the one after a hospital visit in 93. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I am asking this question, and appreciate your answers, because it > appears several members have had less than ideal interactions with their > search for the  "right" medication combo and the appropriate  pdoc/therp > with whom a trusting relationship could be established. > Since your diagnosis, has your treatment and mangement of BP illness > been: > 1. Effective > 2. Ineffective (breakthrough manias, hypomanias, depressions) > 3. Inconvenient (adverse side effects) which resulted in termination of > a specific medication > Have any of you changed pdocs because of the above occurrances? > Finally, wht is the length of time you have been officially diagnosed as > having BP illness? > For me I have been fortunate. My pdoc is trustworthy, caring, and > accessible. > I have had to change meds frequently since i have been plgued with > severed depressions. I also have URC which proves to be a challenge to > treat <sigh>. > I have been officially DX or nearly 2 years but have had > BP  illness since my teens (my pdoc agrees with my assessment per the > historical information I have given him). > Peace,

Response:

>1. Effective

   Variable, but at worst negligent. >2. Ineffective (breakthrough manias, hypomanias, depressions)

    breathrough mania, hypomanias, mostly depressions. >3. Inconvenient (adverse side effects) which resulted in termination of a

specific medication. >Stopped for side effects: Paxil, Serzone, Neurontin, Depakote,

   Tegretol, Haldol, Mellaril, Thorazine, Trilafon. Wellbutrin,     Buspirone, Desipermine, caffeine, alcohol (but cheat a little)     That is it?  I loves klonopin the wonder drug. >Have any of you changed pdocs because of the above occurrances?

  I have had more Pdocs than a dog has fleas, most government   employees, where there is not a lot of choices >Finally, wht is the length of time you have been officially diagnosed as

having BP illness? Officially since late 1976, however the symptoms and treatment began in late 1968.  Because of the delay in correct diagnosis, 8 years was spent on that "ship of fools"  Vernon (kates secret lover) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Peace,

Response:

>I am asking this question, and appreciate your answers, because it >appears several members have had less than ideal interactions with their >search for the  "right" medication combo and the appropriate  pdoc/therp >with whom a trusting relationship could be established. >Since your diagnosis, has your treatment and mangement of BP illness >been: >1. Effective >2. Ineffective (breakthrough manias, hypomanias, depressions) >3. Inconvenient (adverse side effects) which resulted in termination of >a specific medication

Well, I can answer 1, 2, and 3!  Right now, the treatment is apparently effective, although just in the last week or so I have been having some very mild twinges of hypomania, but certainly nothing approaching a full-blown episode.  For six months following my diagnosis, I was on a medication combo that harnessed my mania but did nothing at all for depression.  One of the medications (Depakote) had very adverse side effects, and I stopped taking it. >Have any of you changed pdocs because of the above occurrances?

Nope.  I trust my pdoc; he was willing to keep trying different combos until we finally hit on the right one.  Plus, I can get into see him quickly in an emergency, he returns phone calls, and most importantly, he listens to me. I also see an excellent clinical psychologist for therapy.  She pegged me as bipolar before she knew of my diagnosis.  Without the support of both of these people, I don’t believe I would have survived my last suicidal depression. >Finally, wht is the length of time you have been officially diagnosed as >having BP illness?

I could have written the paragraph below.   >I have been officially DX or nearly 2 years but have had >BP  illness since my teens (my pdoc agrees with my assessment per the >historical information I have given him).

Linda

Response:

> I am asking this question, and appreciate your answers, because it > appears several members have had less than ideal interactions with their > search for the  "right" medication combo and the appropriate  pdoc/therp > with whom a trusting relationship could be established. > Since your diagnosis, has your treatment and mangement of BP illness > been: > 1. Effective > 2. Ineffective (breakthrough manias, hypomanias, depressions) > 3. Inconvenient (adverse side effects) which resulted in termination of > a specific medication

My treatment (IMHO) has been fairly effective. While there have been a few hypos and a few depressions, I have not gone REALLY high or stayed low for more than a few days straight. My pdocs treatment OTOH was both #2 and #3, which is why I quit it. > Have any of you changed pdocs because of the above occurrances?

Just quit using the one I had – Unfortunately, he’s my only choice in this area My therp was good, but can’t prescribe. > Finally, wht is the length of time you have been officially diagnosed as > having BP illness?

A little less than a year – avoided pdocs like the plague and therefore avoided the diagnosis <g>. > For me I have been fortunate. My pdoc is trustworthy, caring, and > accessible. > I have had to change meds frequently since i have been plgued with > severed depressions. I also have URC which proves to be a challenge to > treat <sigh>. > I have been officially DX or nearly 2 years but have had > BP  illness since my teens (my pdoc agrees with my assessment per the > historical information I have given him). > Peace,

Tigger

Response:

I’m hoping you feel better today then your last post about the bipolar site we all had such – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Oh Lynda… I could write a book….  I’ll really try to make it short. > Since your diagnosis, has your treatment and mangement of BP illness > been: > 1. Effective – As far as a bandaid effect, yes my treatment has been effective.  When >         I first started this roller coaster ride, the goal was to bring me > down, reel >         me in.  That’s happened.  Drug Merry-Go Round, Therapy, all the "by the > book" >         Things.  My life still is not my own. > 2. Ineffective (breakthrough manias, hypomanias, depressions) – I’ve had them all. >         Breakthrough Linda.  Uh huh. > 3. Inconvenient (adverse side effects) which resulted in termination of a specific > medication – Oh yeah.  Even had one wonderful pdoc that damn near killed me with an >         overdose of Li.  One of them had me committed because I simply > "cried."  Note >         To myself:  NEVER cry in front of a pdoc again. > Have any of you changed pdocs because of the above occurrances? >         Absolutely.  Five within as many years.  One died, one took his place >         temporarily, one took her place, one gave up, committed me, and made me > leave >         and thank God for the new one. > Finally, wht is the length of time you have been officially diagnosed as > having BP illness? >         Five years > I hop this is what you were looking for.  I tried to keep it short. > Hugs, > Linda > (Briteyes)

Response:

> Since your diagnosis, has your treatment and mangement of BP illness > been: > 1. Effective

I have been seeing my current Pdoc, Therapist, and NP for too short of a time to pass judgment.  Looks like treatment will be effective, sooner or later. > 2. Ineffective (breakthrough manias, hypomanias, depressions)

Currently ineffective by my own choice.  Was on meds when I started with current treatment group and realized I had to take a chance and go off meds for them to properly diagnose me.  Turns out I was right. > 3. Inconvenient (adverse side effects) which resulted in termination of > a specific medication.  

So far I have terminated 3 meds due to reallllly bad side effects (reallllly bad is worse than adverse <G>). > Have any of you changed pdocs because of the above occurrances?

My first therapist was, how shall I say, a quack? > Finally, wht is the length of time you have been officially diagnosed as > having BP illness?

Over 3 years.  The first 2-1/2 years were a waste of time and have resulted in a lot of problems with my applications for SSD and SSI.  My current therapist and I have concluded that my first signs of BP were in childhood. Mike

Response:

lol… Thank you Lisa.  I did get a bit weirded out over it.  I was disgusted too.  I’m much better now. lol Linda (Briteyes) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > I’m hoping you feel better today then your last post about the bipolar site we all had such > Oh Lynda… I could write a book….  I’ll really try to make it short. > > Since your diagnosis, has your treatment and mangement of BP illness > > been: > > 1. Effective – As far as a bandaid effect, yes my treatment has been effective.  When >         I first started this roller coaster ride, the goal was to bring me > down, reel >         me in.  That’s happened.  Drug Merry-Go Round, Therapy, all the "by the > book" >         Things.  My life still is not my own. > > 2. Ineffective (breakthrough manias, hypomanias, depressions) – I’ve had them all. >         Breakthrough Linda.  Uh huh. > > 3. Inconvenient (adverse side effects) which resulted in termination of a specific > > medication – Oh yeah.  Even had one wonderful pdoc that damn near killed me with an >         overdose of Li.  One of them had me committed because I simply > "cried."  Note >         To myself:  NEVER cry in front of a pdoc again. > > Have any of you changed pdocs because of the above occurrances? >         Absolutely.  Five within as many years.  One died, one took his place >         temporarily, one took her place, one gave up, committed me, and made me > leave >         and thank God for the new one. > > Finally, wht is the length of time you have been officially diagnosed as > > having BP illness? >         Five years > I hop this is what you were looking for.  I tried to keep it short. > Hugs, > Linda > (Briteyes)

Response:

Hi , I was Diagnosed with Bipolar II 5 months ago . I have changed PDocs twice . First I was put on Wellbutrin which had the opposite effect and put me in a depression so deep I was having Psychotic symptoms and they had to put me on Risperadol . They figured this out and put me on Zoloft which had no effect on me so they kept increasing it. For weeks I had no relief . Finally they opted for Lithium with Prozac . Prozac made me hyper and gave me insomnia . They switched me to the newest drug on the market , Which I had an allergic reaction to . So they opted for just Lithium . The only effect that was adverse with Lithium was that they did not tell me drinking coffee with it would give me Tremors . So now I drink decaf. So far I have broken through the Lithium twice with Depressive episodes so they keep increasing my Lithium . My current Pdoc is Okay but my Therapist ditched me and stopped returning my phone calls without explaination . I was taking Atavan but they cut me off for fear of my becoming addicted to it . I have OCD and severe anxiety attacks . I have been hospitalised once which is where I was diagnosed Bipolar II . While in the Hospital my insurance company decided not to pay for me to stay simply because I needed to be stablised , They deemed me not suicidal enough . So they put me in Partial which they would only pay for 4 days . They said sorry , Thats the breaks.  I had checked myself into the hospital to start with because I had been planning on Killing myself .I had even written my letters to my loved ones , I ended up going for help because I knew I would do it if I didnt get help . My overall experience with the medical proffession  has not been good concerning my Bipolar I still want to die on a regular basis and my experience has been that they care about the damn money more than whether I get well or not . Sorry if that sounds negative its simply the closest to the truth of how I feel about my treatment . I feel like Im being kept in Limbo . Not enough to off myself and not enough to feel well either. Thats basically been my experience in a nutshell . I have been lucky at least I had Insurance the first time .  I am currently going through a depressive episode so please forgive my bitter , down attitude . Tab

Question:

My boyfriend has just switched from Sertraline (lustral) 4 weeks ago to Nefazodone (Dutonin) . I’d be interested to know if anyone has done the same as he’s experienced some interesting side effects.  He’s also on Lithium and Chlorpromazine prn. Thanks for your replies Susan

Response:

I have to make one of 2 assumptions here: 1. The sertraline was not working. 2. Your boyfriend needed help sleeping. I would bet on the latter, as trazadone is a rather sedating anti depressant. I suggest you enjoy those side effects. trazadone is a newer version of trazadone, which was prescribed for much the same reason but tended to cause priapism, which can be quite a problem, I understand. Here is a link with some more info, about halfway down the page. http://www.biopsychiatry.com/ Keith – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >My boyfriend has just switched from Sertraline (lustral) 4 weeks ago to >Nefazodone (Dutonin) . I’d be interested to know if anyone has done the same >as he’s experienced some interesting side effects.  He’s also on Lithium and >Chlorpromazine prn. >Thanks for your replies >Susan

Response:

Question:

Lynda,  FWIW = for what it’s worth.  IMHO = in my humble opinion.  These are often used to soften the impact of a pointed statement. — For more information about this service, send e-mail to:

Response:

there’s actually a list… i saw it.. shoot. ill try and find it again and post it.. it’s funny alexia the not headed – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >Dear pcangel, >Please don’t feel foolish. >I was so clueless..still am about some of the abbreviations I see…damn >I wish I had written some of them down too. >FAQ = frequently asked questions >SSRI = selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, which are >antidepressants (ADs) like (Zoloft, Prozac, Paxil) >LI = lithium >URC = ultra rapid cycler >RC = rapid cycler >MS = mood stabilizer drugs >AA(s) = antianxiety meds >AP(s) = antipsychotic meds >IMO = in my opinion >IMHO = in my humble opinion >Here’s the one that got me :ROFLMAO = rolling on the floor laughing my >ass off! I NEVER would have figured that one out!!! >Come on you guys…give us some more examples >Peace, >What does AWIW mean? (I think that’s right <sigh>) >Reach beyond your grasp! >– >Reach beyond your grasp!

Response:

Dear pcangel, Please don’t feel foolish. I was so clueless..still am about some of the abbreviations I see…damn I wish I had written some of them down too. FAQ = frequently asked questions SSRI = selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, which are antidepressants (ADs) like (Zoloft, Prozac, Paxil) LI = lithium URC = ultra rapid cycler RC = rapid cycler MS = mood stabilizer drugs AA(s) = antianxiety meds AP(s) = antipsychotic meds IMO = in my opinion IMHO = in my humble opinion Here’s the one that got me :ROFLMAO = rolling on the floor laughing my ass off! I NEVER would have figured that one out!!! Come on you guys…give us some more examples Peace, What does AWIW mean? (I think that’s right <sigh>) Reach beyond your grasp! — Reach beyond your grasp!

Response:

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > With respect, and with acknowledgment that I am not a medical professional > either, I would like to respond to darkman’s suggestion: > I would suggest that you speak to your psychiatrist and ask about the > possibility of trying Neurontin or Lamictal.  Both have been found to > be effective in the reduction of the downward spiral that you are > describing. > Neurontin and Lamictal, along with other "new anticonvulsants," are being > investigated by some pdocs as possible mood stabilizers, but there is > considerable disagreement about how well they work, and there is very > little peer-reviewed medical information on their use for bipolar disorder. > If I recall correctly, Neurontin in particular was shown by one study to be > statistically no more effective than placebo, and there have been reports > of severe side effects. Some bipolar individuals, though, have experienced > great response to Neurontin.

I think I read somewhere that Lamictal has been proven effective.  My pdoc has 9 people on it and it’s working.  It’s working for me, I now have to take only 450 mg of Li with it.  Maybe eventually I can take no Li and just Lamictal.  Sometime a mix of meds is most effective though. Li is the strongest but has so many sideeffects but in small doses mixed with others, not bad – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Sincerely, AW > — > For more information about this service, send e-mail to:

Response:

Hello, I’m a prodigal to the group…(she said, sheepishly…)  I recently have gone off lithium – it causes me to jerk so badly that it was eventually unacceptable.  So Pdoc agreed (after I had already stopped, admittedly) to this course of action.  Am also on sertraline but recently I have begun to feel so low, I don’t know why, but its as if something physical is happening to me, something at a very fundamental level, I don’t know…deep in my guts I feel so bad. Lethargic, bleak, bad hearted…. I’m scared because I am already on sertraline (Zoloft) and what else can I do? Can stopping lithium have triggered this? Lithium made me feel brain dead, and in my work this is impossible. Has anyone any ideas?  Dosage is 100mg zoloft and 2000mg tergretol daily.  Thank you.   Zoe

Response:

>Hello, I’m a prodigal to the group…(she said, sheepishly…)  I recently >have gone off lithium – it causes me to jerk so badly that it was >eventually unacceptable.  So Pdoc agreed (after I had already stopped, >admittedly) to this course of action.  Am also on sertraline but recently I >have begun to feel so low, I don’t know why, but its as if something >physical is happening to me, something at a very fundamental level, I don’t >know…deep in my guts I feel so bad. Lethargic, bleak, bad hearted…. I’m >scared because I am already on sertraline (Zoloft) and what else can I do? >Can stopping lithium have triggered this? Lithium made me feel brain dead, >and in my work this is impossible. Has anyone any ideas?  Dosage is 100mg >zoloft and 2000mg tergretol daily.  Thank you.   >Zoe

I can’t advise regarding meds, but uh, ya better hold tight.  You know .. . .  hang in there.  The mind-body interaction is surely a weird thing.  I’m waking up every morning a slightly different person than the one I went to bed as [Boy, there's gotta be a punch line somewhere around here . . .  but I'll let it go if it's all the same to you.] Now for advice.  First:  Do no harm. Relax a little and start to take account of yourself. There may be lots of minuses in your life, but don’t forget to take a glance over there at the  . . . . . . . . . . . ++++’s.  Bear up.  Be brave. Take heart.  You can do it.   [Some nerve I have talkin about +++'s and - - - 's . . . . . on a good day I'm lucky if I can count to ten, much less do arithmetic, errrh.] As to those devils that keep scurrying up your pants legs, they’re not really there. It’s just a test to see how well you can handle yourself .. . .  . . . which reminds me  of a story that’s so dirty I’m ashamed to think of it myself.    {:>/   flick, flick. Well, Dr. Hackenbush needs to come to an end . . . and whose end he comes to is nobody’s  business. Prepare the sheep dip, Garc,on. [I never can get those frog letters outta my keyboard just right . . . .. . . . .. or was it frog legs I was tryin to get outta my keyboard ?? I certainly wish I had put this on paper.  At least then I could ribbut it up  . . . .errrrrrh.. Take heart. . . . . Take anyone’s heart, but don’t get caught while you’re doin it. –Just a little laughter from the master of disasters.  Keep warm.  Be well.  Roll with the punches . . . which reminds me,  I’m incredibily late for brunch, this morning.  See ya later, sunshine. Groufiltafish and lox of love, Hugo Z. Hackenbush – - anytime you want. aka groucho5

Response:

Hi there Zoe, welcome back!  If lithium was causing bad tremors, you were absolutely right to look for medication that works better!  You deserve it. There are lots of options. You say you’re on Tegretol; that is a mood stabilizer that’s an alternative to lithium (as you may already know). I hope it works out well for you. Also as you know, Zoloft is supposed to help lift you out of feeling "lethargic, bleak, bad hearted." And 100mg sounds to me like more than a trivial dose (I was on 25mg). So, yeah, I surely see why you’d be alarmed that you still feel rotten. Please don’t lose hope, though. It takes awhile for Zoloft to produce a beneficial effect – sometimes weeks. And you said your switch to Tegretol, after being off lithium, was recent. Give your body some time to adjust to the new medications. But meanwhile, stay closely in touch with your pdoc. Since you feel like you are sinking into a more fundamental depression, by all means, call and check in at the first opportunity! And hang in there, one day at a time. — For more information about this service, send e-mail to:

Response:

With respect, and with acknowledgment that I am not a medical professional either, I would like to respond to darkman’s suggestion: > I would suggest that you speak to your psychiatrist and ask about the > possibility of trying Neurontin or Lamictal.  Both have been found to > be effective in the reduction of the downward spiral that you are > describing.

According to what I have learned from actively researching Web sites and participating in the 2 bipolar newsgroups and the National Depressive and Manic Depressive Association for about 1 year, Tegretol is one of the three medications widely accepted after research to be safe and effective as mood stabilizers. The other two are lithium and Depakote. Neurontin and Lamictal, along with other "new anticonvulsants," are being investigated by some pdocs as possible mood stabilizers, but there is considerable disagreement about how well they work, and there is very little peer-reviewed medical information on their use for bipolar disorder. If I recall correctly, Neurontin in particular was shown by one study to be statistically no more effective than placebo, and there have been reports of severe side effects. Some bipolar individuals, though, have experienced great response to Neurontin. I don’t know about the Tegretol dosage, but if this is of concern, I could look up some information. It does sound like something worth asking your pdoc about. Also with respect, I would personally avoid telling anyone who has recently changed medications that they should change medications again. Psychiatric meds take a while to take effect. Give your meds a chance to work before you give up. Sincerely, AW — For more information about this service, send e-mail to:

Response:

Question:

Adding sertraline (Zoloft) to lithium and lamotrigine tomorrow.  I found this report on the use of gingko biloba extract (available at any health food store) in treating AD-induced sexual dysfunction.  I’ve used it in the past, but never for this indication.  I’d be interested in hearing from anyone who’s tried it for ASD, or who anticipates giving it a trial.             http://www.publinet.it/pol/pharmol/gingko.htm

Response:

Viscount, Tried Ginko Biloba and liked it for ASD. \ Increased libido, strength, etc.//

Response: