Posted by Maximus on November 3, 2002, at 21:20:24
In reply to Re: lamictal, posted by lostsailor on November 3, 2002, at 16:49:27
I just want to add my knowledge here, based on my experience, reading, studies, pdoc's chat and facts.
FDA is going to approve soon Lamictal as "long-term management of ***DEPRESSIVE*** episodes in bipolar I/II disorder".
- Lamictal is NOT more effective than placebo in the prevention of mania.
- Lamictal is NOT a replacement for the classic mood stabilizers. It is an add-on. Period.
- Lamictal CAN precipitate mania like any others antidepressants.
- Lamictal is activating. You may have sometimes anxiety, insomnia, etc.
- Lamictal appears to be the only effective and useful treatment in the bipolar depression.
Moreover:
- Lithium and Valproate are NOT more effective than placebo for the treatment of bipolar depression.
- Valproate: great for ACUTE mania. It is fast and powerful. It often precipitates depression.
- Neurontin is NOT more effective than placebo in the prevention of mania.
- Lamictal and valproate have bad interactions together.
- Lamictal and Tegretol have bad interactions together.
- Topamax: inconclusive studies. Can precipitate mania.
- Tegretol: often works when everything has failed in both mania and depression.
Thus,
The new modern treatment for the bipolar condition, i.e. the bleeding cutting edge (but proved, studied and well known) meds are Lithium (mania) + Lamictal (depression) together. They are the best match but not a miracle combo.
I hope this helps.
Best regards,
Max
poster:Maximus
thread:126035
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20021101/msgs/126335.html