Posted by Barbara Cat on June 2, 2003, at 11:33:32
In reply to Re: Should BP II's nix the AD's?, posted by Mama Bear on May 31, 2003, at 18:40:18
It depends on the AD. My experience spans the gamut with all the SSRIs and SNRIs which went the typical route of off with a blast, poop out, increase, mania, etc. Figured it might be BPII and started adding lithium - a miracle- but was still having depression (but thank God, not the awful mixed states kind anymore). Added lamictal and still depressed. Having tried all the rest I gave in to my pdocs suggestion and started nortriptyline, a good old TCA from way back. It's been amazingly helpful. Side effects were dry mouth and tremors, but these went away after 2 months.
BTW, I was on Remeron for a while while taking lithium, but it still made me feel awful. Must be something about the mechanics of the SSRI family of meds that are nasty for BPII's. I personally endorse tricyclics if you're BPII and still depressed. Works for me, and I've dubbed by my pdoc as a 'remarkably resistant case'.
poster:Barbara Cat
thread:229544
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030530/msgs/230794.html