Posted by SLS on October 23, 2005, at 10:50:36
In reply to Re: Anyone who had rapid cycling and got it to sto » SLS, posted by fuchsia on October 23, 2005, at 9:39:57
Hi again.
> Thanks for answering!
>
> I have bipolar II. I did try lithium before but couldn't tolerate even a tiny amount which was a shame because it felt like it was doing wonders for my depression (for the short time I took it).
>
> Maybe depakote would be something to add? I'm not sure about it because the lamictal has taken away most of the manic type symptoms (agitation, racing thoughts, hypomania, extreme crossness) but I still have bad repeating depressions (somewhat cushioned as compared to before).Depakote is certainly a good drug to consider for helping with your cycling into depression. It is extremely important to note that you must reduce your dosage of Lamictal by 50%. Depakote elevates levels of Lamictal.
1. Before beginning Depakote, get a blood test for baseline liver enzymes.
2. Introduce the Depakote while reducing the Lamictal.
3. Get blood test for liver enzymes after two weeks.
4. Get blood tests for Depakote to insure therapeutic levels.
5. Get blood test for liver enzymes every month or two until you have been on Depakote for 6 months.
Two other drugs that are worthy of consideration are Trileptal and Abilify. These are really substitutes for Tegretol and Zyprexa respectively, as they have reduced side effects.
- Scott
poster:SLS
thread:570802
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20051017/msgs/570880.html