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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 6 of 6. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by markwell on July 27, 2010, at 14:53:34
I have a bipolar diagnosis, which I have fought for a long time. I have a new doctor who started me on zoloft and depakote. I had trouble with the depakote so I am only on the zoloft. I was on paxil a year ago and had a manic episode that landed me in the hospital where I received my diagnosis. I have racing thoughts with or without medicine and the zoloft doesnt seem to help. I've tried zyprexa (weight gain) and seroquel (anger and irritability issues). I don't know what would be a good mood stabilizer to add. I also have terrible insomnia. 3 to 4 hrs a night is good sleep for me and the zoloft isn't helping. I would appreciate any suggestions. Maybe start with a lower dose of depakote although I didn't like the way it made me feel. Thanks for your responses. I'm afraid of going manic on zoloft alone so I'm quite concerned.
Posted by ed_uk2010 on July 27, 2010, at 16:07:49
In reply to I need some advice!, posted by markwell on July 27, 2010, at 14:53:34
>I don't know what would be a good mood stabilizer to add.
Have you tried lithium? It can be quite tolerable at low doses. It is much better established than most mood stabilisers so it shouldn't be overlooked.
Interesting that you ask for a good mood stabiliser 'to add'. I get the impression that Zoloft isn't helping much. Perhaps it would be better to stop Zoloft. Combining lithium with SSRIs tends to cause side effects.
I really think you need to return to your psychiatrist to discuss these issues. You don't want to risk having another manic episode.
Posted by markwell on July 27, 2010, at 18:26:52
In reply to Re: I need some advice!, posted by ed_uk2010 on July 27, 2010, at 16:07:49
I tried lithium and I just didn't get any antidepressant effect from it. Lithium and zoloft wouldn't be good? I've only been on zoloft for 2 weeks.
Posted by markwell on July 27, 2010, at 18:58:04
In reply to Re: I need some advice!, posted by markwell on July 27, 2010, at 18:26:52
Is there anything that works with lithium for major depression plus I have GAD.
Posted by ed_uk2010 on July 28, 2010, at 15:09:47
In reply to Re: I need some advice!, posted by markwell on July 27, 2010, at 18:26:52
>Lithium and zoloft wouldn't be good?
Lithium and SSRIs are sometimes used in combination. You just have to be careful because the risk of adverse effects may be increased. Careful dosage adjustments are vital.
Posted by markwell on July 28, 2010, at 18:25:17
In reply to Re: I need some advice!, posted by ed_uk2010 on July 28, 2010, at 15:09:47
I went to the doctor today and he wanted me to try lamictal. I tried it several years ago and I was unable to sleep and it made me spit all the time. I don't know if this will go away or maybe once the zoloft kicks in I'll sleep better. Thanks Ed
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