Posted by sac on November 3, 2003, at 12:59:05
In reply to Irritable depression - I need a new drug - help!, posted by Harlock on November 3, 2003, at 11:20:17
I too am bipolar II. I have episodes of major depression alternating with hypomanic moods. Consisting of mainly intense irritability, rage, negativity etc but also extremely energetic at these times also which is a bad combination. I have been on Lexapro (also hated it), still am on Prozac, Wellbutrin, Depakote (low dose so it doesn't knock me out 250mg at night) and Lamictal. Lamictal is the newest drug to be approved by the FDA for bipolar disorder. It's action is similar to that of Lithium without most of the problematic side effects. Lamictal is pretty stimulating as far as the anti-convulsant medications go but this usually wears off as you get used to it. I don't know if this would help but it seems to be effective for bipolar II particulary the depressed phase. You may also need a tranquilizer ( Serax is what I take at times of extreme agitation since I have two litte kids at home and I don't want to be raging) to help you cope with some of the more intense emotions. Just some thoughts. Good luck to you.
poster:sac
thread:276082
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20031030/msgs/276105.html