Posted by William on April 18, 2000, at 23:23:53
In reply to bipolar and medication options, posted by bjohnson on April 17, 2000, at 20:02:56
> I am bipolar-I took Prozac and Tegretal for the past four years.My only ill effects were loss of sex urge, some twitching, yawning and afternoon sleepiness. My family has urged me off the meds. Money, dependancy,fear of liver problems from the Tegretal, and not understanding by my spouse are the reasons I agreed to quit taking my meds on Jan.1,2000. Now the signs of depression are closing in, my sex drive never returned and I am afraid that the really bad times are beginning again. My next dr. appt is not until May 5. I am afraid. Has anyone any advice about alternative medications? Maybe cheaper,less controversial meds that my family wont be so afraid of? Also has anyone else ever gone off these meds cold-turkey and what was the result for them? Thank you.
Hi:I have some URGENT thoughts I would like to pass on. Of course, none of this is "medical" advice or whatever. But, from being Bipolar, to dealing with family...even sex drive....I have a bit of experience in each.
As mentioned...I don't think you should STOP the Tegretol right away. Talk to your doctor, and ask if there is an alternative a bit less risky. Second..your "family" Now...are we talking your "spouse", "children", or in-law's?
There are some EXCELLENT books out there available to family members of us suffering with a mental illness. I can't recall the titles off hand...but I will search around the net for some. To you, AND, to the above posters...we can't sit silently..living in fear and pain?? Is that what life is all about?? No. Being "silent" is just contributing to the "stigma" of Mental Illness.
Also, if you can ask your doctor about support groups in your area, that would be excellent. You will get a chance to meet fellow bipolar and depressives, and share your issue in an open forum.
I would honestly say..CALL your doc...talk to them...get back on your meds regarding what they say. The sexual component CAN be treated..but you have to get the family REALIZING that this IS a BONIFIDE illness like Cancer, Aids, etc.
Also..just a note on the St. John's Wort...in the North American Medical Community...it's efficiacy holds VERY little ground. We need serious medicine for a serious problem. (not demeaning what you said.)
Best wishes..and please respond back with questions..and let us know how you make out...
Sincerely, William:-)
poster:William
thread:30386
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000411/msgs/30515.html