Posted by Chloe on April 8, 2002, at 20:49:48
In reply to LITHIUM questions, posted by HMK on April 8, 2002, at 9:04:22
>I know it's considered the gold standard in treating bipolar
Heather,
In my personal opinion and from my pdoc, Lithium is the gold standard for BP 1. Where the person has distinct and full blown mania episodes and deep depressions that last a number of weeks or more. I think lithium is less of a first line treatment in BP2 where the person might cycle from hypomania to depressed very rapidly and erractically. However, in BP 2, the dosages and blood levels of lithium tend to be lower, hence more tolerable.I would have to say the "gold standard" for rapid cylcing is Depakote, as Mitch mentioned. I had many months of rapid cycling on and off of lithium. It wasn't until a low dose of Depakote was added that things have leveled off, thank heavens!
If you are having thyroid problems, I am suprised that Li would be a drug of choice for you. As lithium is quite notorious for *causing* hypothyroidism over prolonged use.
I am sorry you are having a rough time. Perhaps getting the thyroid under control first is the best course of action. Though I think adding another mood stabilizer might help alot. I take low doses of three, lithium, depakote and neurontin.
Lastly, Geodon caused hypomania for me when I gave it a two week trial. I wonder if that and the effexor are too activating?
Sorry for the discombobulated post. I am rushing off. Where did that hour go we lost last Sat. nite?
Take care
Chloe
poster:Chloe
thread:102373
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020408/msgs/102445.html