Posted by Chocamine on August 27, 2009, at 18:43:14
Hi guys,
I am currently on day 4 of 12mg of Abilify.
Although I am Bipolar type I, the main purpose of the treatment is to reduce the negative symptoms (just like in schizophrenia) that followed my first psychotic episode.I was previously using Zyprexa (10mg) with modest results. It even made me hypomanic for a short period of time.
The main problem I am having with Abilify (other than insomnia, which I can sort of deal with), is the tremors. It makes me feel flat out "twitchy". I have hand tremors and my face starts to spazz out a bit if I try to smile or produce any kind of facial expression. I do not have any of these problems when I am off of antipsychotic medications.
I should also mention that Zyprexa also gave me these symptoms, albeit much less severe. Likewise, pramipexole (a DA agonist) gave me severe tremors.
Is this a side effect that would likely go away with time? It is really bothering me.
On the same note, I want to say that I am really not keen on the idea of being on an AAP, but it seems to be the only thing out there that is even remotely close to being able to treat the negative symptoms. Without it, I am simply unable to hold a conversation, and I have no desire to socialize. My working and short-term memory is also completely shot.
I sure miss the days when I was normal (especially manic). It was the complete opposite. I just HAD to talk and socialize all the time. It sure was fun.
My (unfounded) theory is that left untreated, my prefrontal cortex will just wither away and things will just get worse, so I'm pretty desperate to find an effective treatment. I'm only 21 so I have a lot to live for.
Any advice would be much appreciated. Thanks!
poster:Chocamine
thread:914437
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20090826/msgs/914437.html