Posted by Ritch on October 31, 2002, at 22:27:31
In reply to Re: Recognizing / Treating Cyclothymia, posted by Krysti on October 31, 2002, at 13:15:45
> Hi,
>
> I can also relate. I was in your position about a year ago. I looked up cyclothymia and it pretty much described me, however, I chose to be in denial about it at the time. I also had extreme anxiety for 6 years. I finally decided to go on Paxil for the anxiety. I ended up becoming manic and was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. I initially went on Depakote which brought me down from the manic state, but ended up switching to another mood stabilizer (Gabitril) due to weight gain and the "flat" feeling. About a month ago, I also added on Lexapro for depression. So far, so good.
>
> When I first realized I was probably cyclothymic, I was scared to death. I didn't want to have anything to do with "bipolar". I didn't want to be on medication (lithium - oh my!), be crazy, etc.
>
> Now I am so glad I was diagnosed, being on medication has helped so much. I no longer feel like I'm going crazy.
>
> The most important thing is to tell your doctor what is going on, sooner rather than later. From what I've read about it, it can get worse if not treated.
>
> Good luck to you.
>
> Krysti
>
>
>
>
Krysti, How much Gabitril (and when) are you taking now? I am wondering because I was on a high dose of it as a trial a couple of years ago and had to stop it because of depersonalization/cognitive problems. My pdoc brought it up again a couple of visits ago, but I didn't want to retry it. Have you found it as effective as Depakote for your cycling? Thanks for any input--Mitch
poster:Ritch
thread:125331
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20021025/msgs/126019.html