Posted by SLS on April 28, 2006, at 12:54:01
In reply to Re: SLS, posted by UgottaHaveHope on April 28, 2006, at 10:43:04
> What is a bipolar mixed state?
A mixed state can be thought of as a combination of mania and depression. It is a difficult state to characterize, but can include racing thoughts, irritability, anger, anxiety, agitation, impulsivity, sleep disturbances, depressed mood, dysphoria, excessive energy, pressured speech, rage, and even suicidal ideation. It affects females more often than males.
> I have never been diagnosed as bipolar, although my grandmother was. What would be the symptoms of that?
Whenever there is a clear case of bipolar disorder in first degree relatives, it is likely that there will be a bipolar component to any mood illness present.
> Why do you think Dep would be better that Ser?
Depakote has been shown to be more effective than lithium when treating mixed-state bipolar disorder. I think it works well as a mood stabilizer. As such, it works to prevent future episodes from happening. Seroquel is helpful when treating the episode once it is triggered. It might also have some mood stabilizing properties, but it isn't currently recognized as being such.
> You own personal experiences?
I found Depakote to work very fast when I experience a mixed-state. 1000mg usually does the trick. Depakote is prescribed in dosages that vary widely. Some people feel that 250-500mg acts to stabilize their mood while others clearly need 1000-2000mg. People's experiences with Depakote also vary greatly. Some people find it somewhat depressing while others find it neutral or even antidepressive. Some people gain a lot of weight with it while others don't. I never had a problem with weight gain.
I guess you can try to increase the Seroquel first, but if things continue to be uncomfortable, I would consider adding a mood stabilizer. Of those that are currently available, I think Depakote would be the best choice if you are indeed suffering a mixed-state.
- Scott
poster:SLS
thread:637450
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20060423/msgs/637833.html