Posted by Christ_empowered on October 11, 2012, at 14:11:38
In reply to Re: And, why add Lamictal? » Christ_empowered, posted by brynb on October 11, 2012, at 13:33:18
From what I understand (and I could be wrong--I don't do medicatin' for a living, lol), the data shows that Lamictal can delay time to next depressive episode considerably. That's about all you can expect from a mood-elevator. Also, it doesn't usually cause/worsen depression (problem with lithium, depakote, and sometimes neuroleptics), doesn't usually induce agitation or (hypo)mania, and it can have anti-(hypo)manic effects. Its also been studied in some forms of psychosis (w/ conventional treatment). Sometimes it works for people with lingering psychotic issues, so its an interesting medication.
Plus, its generic now, so the cost difference between lamictal and lithium aren't as significant, especially since lamictal usually doesn't require blood work (I've heard some docs do it, for rapid or slow metabolizers and people on cocktails, and epileptics who need certain blood levels...not usually issues for people with mood issues).
I just recommend you try lamictal because it seems a lot safer, over the long haul, than lithium. Its your body though.
poster:Christ_empowered
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