Posted by Elizabeth on October 28, 1999, at 10:32:07
In reply to Mood Stabilizers, posted by Susan on October 28, 1999, at 5:43:55
> Has anyone heard of any documentation that Neurontin or Lamictal are being used as the first line of treatment for cyclothymia? Are these newer meds "safer" than Lithium or Depakote since they do not require blood level checks? Are they supposed to be more or as effective? If Lamictal causes a bad reaction (hypomania/nightmares/pain/etc.) would it be safe to try Neurontin?
For their use as first-line agents, or in cyclothymia specifically? No. However, as far as I know, treatments for cyclothymia are pretty much the same as for bipolar II, and Lamictal and Neurontin both have been studied for that.
As for the first-line-ness, I think Neurontin is probably the "safest" of them all in that it doesn't have any of those "rare-but-potentially-dangerous" side effects (none that I can think of, anyway), whereas I'm sure you were cautioned to tell your doctor immediately if you develop a rash on Lamictal.
They are definitely better tolerated than lithium or Depakote (i.e., fewer side effects). I had no side effects from Lamictal (up to 500mg), and the only SE's I had from Neurontin were drowsiness (mild) and the munchies (the reason I didn't stay on it - I gather this is not a common problem, BTW).
poster:Elizabeth
thread:14073
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/19991028/msgs/14089.html