Posted by Elizabeth on July 12, 2001, at 19:42:45
In reply to Re: AD-provoked hypomania - is it diagnostic? » Elizabeth, posted by judy1 on July 11, 2001, at 19:01:15
> Oh, sorry I probably didn't read the entire thread. I know genetics are a big component in making the dx as is having actual episodes, although Akiskal says recurring depressive episodes may be indicative of bipolar disorder.
Akiskal is a very smart guy and has some great, original ideas, but in some cases I think he goes a little too far into left field. In particular, he seems to broaden the definition of "bipolar disorder" to the point where almost everyone would be considered bipolar (much like depression is now).
> Yes, unfortunately while depakote (oral loading) stops mania 'in it's tracks' and zyprexa is very effective for psychosis, I continue to have breakthrough episodes while on therapeutic doses. With depakote it's almost always depression which is unrelenting.
Mood stabilisers won't necessarily stop depression. Consider an AD -- Lamictal and lithium have AD as well as antimanic effects, and Wellbutrin and MAOIs are supposedly less likely than other ADs to trigger mania. (Tricyclics are considered the worst.)
> Because I have TD on AP's (atypical and typical), I won't stay on them for more time than my active symptoms and my pdoc agrees.
Huh. Does this happen with every AP? Have you tried all of the newer ones? Although this is seldom worthwhile, you might consider clozapine if Zyprexa, Seroquel, Risperdal, and Geodon all cause extrapyramidal symptoms or TD.
> The only medications that have been consistantly helpful to me is klonopin for panic disorder and opioids for depression.
Bad luck that they're both controlled substances!
-elizabeth
poster:Elizabeth
thread:69495
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010708/msgs/69898.html