Posted by bleauberry on October 23, 2010, at 5:33:01
In reply to High dose Lamictal?, posted by alchemy on October 22, 2010, at 16:33:21
> Ya, 200mg is the suggested limit.
> I am currently on 400. I'm not sure if it helps my mood, but I do think it is at least provides some overall benefit.
> The next hopeless trial my dr.suggested is trying an increase. He said he doesn't usually go past 500.
> Any known experiences (positive) about increasing to a high dose. If anything, I would just like some additional "stability" as I often use dexadrine to help me get some things done. The dex isn't good for cycling.
> But like my dr. said, do you want to work on the depression or the cycling? I can't have my cake and eat it too. Dexadrine seems to be the only thing that gives me a little bit of motivation (sometimes) Right now I think the contribution to switching is probably worth it. I worry about the future, but when you want to die, why not.Why not add a little lithium? 100mg? 300mg? Added stability with antidepressant potential.
I am not a fan of Lamictal because it has never proven itself worthy in longterm usage. Even in clinical trials it rarely got past 9 months before relapse happened. It is shown to modestly "delay" relapse, but not prevent it. Its intention is for treating seizures and epilepsy, not psychiatric symptoms.
That said, it has been beneficial to enough people that it has become common. It's rare to hear of any longterm success stories with it.
But we all have to work with our doctors and do what we think is best at the time. So I wish you well.
Giving the phrase "can't have cake and eat it too" any credence seems to me a losing attitude and sets the stage for disappointment. If some doctor told me that, I would be on the hunt for a new one. I want a winner with confidence and creativity.
poster:bleauberry
thread:966575
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20101020/msgs/966653.html