Posted by dddiane on May 24, 2003, at 15:49:00
In reply to Re: Mood-stabilizers other than depakote or lithiu » dddiane, posted by katia on May 23, 2003, at 14:10:38
Katia,
You seemed to have gained some valuable insight into your possible dx in a short period of time. And from what I have gathered you have chosen a pdoc with a good reputation, which is a really smart move on your part. It might be a pricy step, but from my perspective an inexperienced or indifferent pdoc is a false economy.
Fifteen months ago I lost my insurance for a time and because I was scared about money I left (for a time) my great pdoc of six years and saw an intern who was free. I have such regrets now. I wasted valuable time - that's how I see it now. He tried me out on, and kept me on meds (specificly APs) that my regular pdoc has never considered appropriate. I honestly think he was so green he was wowed by Lilly reps. Thank god that's over, and now I know that my pdoc is my life line and not where I can afford to be price-shopping.
Now I'm back with my old pdoc and there is nothing like it. She is always up on research, and yet gives me credit for my own reading and opinions, and is ready to try out my ideas. She returns my calls and laughs at my jokes. The relationship is professional, yet relaxed. I have the latitude to fine tune my meds and this is important to me. Remember, I have been dx'ed for 20 years. I've known so many pdocs. Some will try to charge you for a "phone consulation" if you talk to them between appointments. Some get very threatened if you suggest any change in the current med regiment, even if it is not working! Some fall asleep while you are talking to them (this has happened to me!). It's discouraging out there, but a good doc is really worth it.
You might want to do some reading on Lamictal, if you have not done so already. I am switching over from Topamax to Lamictal, and it seems very energizing and anti-depressant in nature. And at this point I've tried all the rest, as they say! :) The research is good on it too.
Best of luck, and it really sounds like you are on the right track with all this,
Diane
Well, best of luck,
poster:dddiane
thread:226813
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030520/msgs/228898.html