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Bipolar Disorder/Bipolar II medications
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Question
Hi,
I'm currently on Ability (10mg), in the past I have taken Lithium (fat feet),
Lamictal (skin rash), Depakote (major tremors), Gabitin(?)(uncontrolled
bladder).... and have now figured out I am rapid (1.5 - 3 months) cycling through
depressions to "OK state".
I am looking at Topamax & Nerotin as possible adjunctive medications. Are there
any others you would suggest looking into? Any reasons not to like these two?
P.S. I've gained 70lbs in the last 3.5 years, and despite a dietitian and personal
trainer I'm still SLOWLY gaining.
Hi Judy:
Topomax would be an excellent choice where the weight is concerned, as one of the side effects of this drug is actually weight loss. It does have a tendency to slow a person down, however, and you may find yourself in a fog if the dose gets too high. I would avoid Neurotin if at all possible. It tends to cause rapid-cycling bipolar disorder to get worse and induce more mixed states.
As another consideration, Seroquel has proven to work very well with rapid-cycling bipolar disorder and the side effects are almost non-existent. You might want to ask your doctor about your ability to try Seroquel.
Joyce A. Anthony
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Answers by Expert:
Joyce A. Anthony
Expertise
I can answer questions dealing with bipolar disorder in a parent, yourself or your child. I can give suggestions and insight into what can be expected of many medications for bipolar disorder. My most extensive knowledge is in children with bipolar disorder. Here I can give advice on dealing with daily events, schools, medication and professionals.
Experience
I am the daughter of a bipolar/schizophrenic parent, am bipolar myself and am raising a bipolar child. I have a background in Psychology from Gannon University, have run several parenting classes for those parenting bipolar children and have had extensive experience with medications, the school system, homeschooling a special needs child, dealing with counselors, doctors and other professionals in the mental health field. I write for a bipolar website, with the focus on educating the child with bipolar disorder on his/her illness.
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