Expert: Ivan Goldberg, M.D. - 6/14/2009

Question
I have recently been diagnosed with bi-polar type 2 manic depression. My doc prescribed lamictal and trazadone and I told him I cannot even get out of bed without adderall or stimulant medication and he said I didn't need it. I need to know where I can find a decent psychiatrist and therapist in my area that actually listens to what I am saying. I am tired of being tired and the people who i've been putting my trust in to help me are not listening. I need some kind of referral to professionals who can help in my area before I go out and take care of this problem on the streets. I'm frustrated.

Answer
Hi Susan . . .

Psychiatrists are reluctant to prescribe amphetamines to control the symptoms of depression. If you check the FDA approved indications for amphetamines you will not find the treatment of depression-related lethargy and fatigue among them. The abusable nature of amphetamines also contributes to the reluctance of psychiatrists to prescribe them.

If you go to http://www.psycom.net/depression.central.psychiatrists.html you will find a list of psychiatrists who are expert when it comes to the treatment of people with mood disorders. You may want to get a second opinion from one of them.

Best regards . . .

Ivan
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