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Re: lamictal 'replacing' zoloft and depakotePeter

Posted by polarbear206 on January 7, 2003, at 21:14:52

In reply to lamictal 'replacing' zoloft and depakote, posted by Peter on January 7, 2003, at 16:42:12

> Well, it's been a very tough few weeks. Last week, when I was still taking 50mg zoloft and 50mg lamictal, I started getting very symptomatic-depressed, anxious, antisocial,etc.. my pdoc said it probably had to do with synergistic serotonergic activity between the lamictal and zoloft, so he had me decrease the zoloft every 4 days by 12.5mg until I wasn't on it anymore. So, I basically came off of 50mg zoloft in about 1 week. Side effects? crying spells, extreme mood swings, electric shock sensations down my arms and legs, weakness, migraines, and pretty much just a complete inability to function. In my desperation, I started proposing to him that we start me up on a TCA since SSRI's don't sit well with me. But he kept saying I should just push on through, as the lamictal could really potentially end up being the grand-slam drug for me after all these years. Meanwhile, he reduced the depakote further from 500mg to 250mg. So I've been a mess; but I'm just now beginning to feel a little better.
> I'm just wondering: does anyone know what kind of serotonergic activity lamictal promotes that causes it to be considered by many to have such marked antidepressant properties? I mean, does it increase serotonin or block its reuptake? Does it affect other neurotransmitters involved in depression and anxiety (NE, DP, etc.). If so, how? I can't seem to find any informative links on the web concerning this subject, and I'd love to be informed since my pdoc thinks lamictal could replace AD's AND AC's. Thanks in advance,
> Peter

Peter,

I don't know exactly what it does as far as affecting neurotransmitters, but I do know that this drug really has been the BEST thing that has happened to me. After 14 years of various a/d's and several mood stablizers. I am almost completely off a/d's and plan to be on just the lamictal. Once I got up to 200mg, it has been smooth sailing. I have to pinch myself every morning. I can't say one negative thing about this drug. Absolutely no side effects. I'm so glad I hung in there and was patient til I got up to a therapeutic level for me. I almost gave up a couple of times.

I don't think it was wise for you doctor to take you off the zoloft so fast. It's obvious that you are having withdrawal. This could of been avoided. You should of slowly over a period of a month wein down as you increase the Lamictal. Just listen to your body. I wish you well and hang in there.

htt://www.psycom.net/depression.central.lamotrigine.html

Laura


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poster:polarbear206 thread:134864
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030106/msgs/134895.html