Posted by Elizabeth on July 17, 2001, at 0:34:22
In reply to Best Tolerated Anti-Convulsant for BP, posted by Mr.Scott on July 16, 2001, at 17:43:27
> New doc with new DX same old drugs...
Isn't it always that way? Well, almost.
> It is possible that I suffer from a mixed bipolar II state, although until now I have always thought of myself as a chronically anxious depressive. Lithium and Depakote are out of the question for me as I find them to have obnoxious side effects.
Lithium isn't really indicated for mixed states, anyway. You could try Tegretol, or its newer and gentler cousin, Trileptal (oxcarbazepine). Lamictal and Neurontin also have pretty good reputations; Topamax might be something to try if those don't work.
Another approach, if mood stabilisers don't seem to be helping, would be to try psychostimulants. The AD Wellbutrin is stimulant-like and is considered to be preferable to other ADs for bipolar disorder (along with the MAO inhibitors).
Alternatively, consider just going on benzos. You might simply have generalised anxiety disorder.
> I have tried to commit suicide seriously once about 5 years ago, and I frequently think about it.
Some people find that atypical antipsychotics in low doses (Zyprexa 2.5-5 mg, for example) help with obsessive suicidal thoughts. (You just take it when the obsessions are bad, you don't have to be on it all the time.)
> I did have a SERIOUS cocaine problem at one time.
What did cocaine do for you?
-elizabeth
poster:Elizabeth
thread:70361
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010714/msgs/70438.html