Posted by nmk on June 2, 2003, at 14:16:51
In reply to Re: Should BP II's nix the AD's? - Depends, posted by Barbara Cat on June 2, 2003, at 11:33:32
> 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'.
>
>Barbara Cat,
It's funny you mentioned that because I have been dubbed the same by my pdoc. I even saw him pulling at his hair on a few occassions. Oh well, at least I am putting his kids through college with what he makes.
My pattern with AD's is very similar to yours...at first i feel great, then I start to feel agitation/anxiety, followed by a few weeks of a deep depression. Then it all starts over again.
Now you have me curious about the remeron. Currently, I take 15 mg for sleep and am wondering if that is contributing to the rapid cycling. It is such a low dose but I will wait to tinker around with that one until I talk to my doctor.
I am glad you finally found a med combo that works. I am going to see if the Trileptal and zoloft continue to work but if the symptoms persist, I think it is wise to move on to the TCA's.
Thanks Barbara!
poster:nmk
thread:229544
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030530/msgs/230839.html