Posted by Patient on February 15, 2003, at 15:52:30
Hi,
I'm new here.
This past week my psychiatrist gave me samples of Lexapro and Carbatrol ER(carbamazepine extended release).
Previously I was taking 20 mg Celexa daily for the past 4 months, augmented with 10 mg BuSpar (to help counteract sexual dysfunction as well as help boost Celexa), as well as .5 mg lorazepam (Ativan) taken during week prior to start of period (higher irritability time). I was doing so-so: feeling like a zombie during morning hours, then highly energetic by late afternoon/evening, which at times I would experience irritability. I began to take .5 mg Ativan at bedtime to help me sleep. Prior to this, I was awakening at 3-4 in the morning unable to fall back asleep. I think my worst complaint after first being put on Zoloft a couple of years ago for PMS, then switched to Prozac, and then to Celexa, is apathy. This part of drug treatment is even worse for me than the sexual dysfunction caused by these drugs. I have not had the weight gain that others complain about. I also do not like the lack of short-term memory, and having word-finding difficulties.
My doctor hasn't outright diagnosed me as yet. I have been seeing him since 2001. He thinks I have either Borderline Personality Disorder, or Bi-polar depression. I have suffered from bulimia nervosa for many years in the past. I have had big problems with spending too much money, do not make long-lasting friendships, and do not work outside the home. Throughout my life I have suffered from depression and extreme anxiety. I also self-mutilate, but not in the strict sense of the word-i.e. I don't cut my wrists-I hit myself with my fists very hard, usually the forward sides of my head. I also hit my legs and stomach, but more so my head. This occurs during a rage attack. I have a very big problem with rage outbursts, as does my entire family. I cry and feel drained after hitting myself, and I no longer feel rage, but just want to nap. I am married but have no children (by choice).
I have started taking 5 mg. of escitalopram (Lexapro) in the morning, and 200 mg capsule of Carbatrol ER with evening meal. My doctor is hoping the carbamazepine (anticonvulsant) will help smooth out my ups and downs, as well as help with my anger problem. This is an off-label use for carbamazepine. My doctor ordered blood tests for platelets, white blood cell and red blood cell count prior to start of Carbatrol, since Carbatrol has been known to reduce these in some individuals. I requested a T3 and T4 thyroid test, as well as cholesterol test, since this drug can also affect these. My doctor did not request tests for liver enzymes. He mentioned he may later try lithium, but that's if carbamazepine doesn't help.
So far, I have noticed lethargy or sleepiness an hour after taking Lexapro (stronger than after taking 20 mg Celexa), but it only lasts for about 2 hours or so. When I first took Carbatrol, I noticed a bit of a druggy or spacy feeling, like one would experience after taking an antihistamine, but the next two days upon taking it I did not notice this as much.
I am happy to submit this information and will submit more as I go along with my current treatment. I am doing quite well, considering what I was experiencing just a month ago.
poster:Patient
thread:200742
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030214/msgs/200742.html