Expert: Ivan Goldberg, M.D. - 12/23/2006

Question
Hi

It's along time that I have Bipolar disorder(BP) and also IBS.
I used so many different medicines like : lithium,Lamotrigine and Orlept(sodium valproate)
but I have many problems with their side effects like vomiting,diarrhea,nausea and also
confusion of mind(sometimes don't know myself,not quick ,not clever).

1-Is there any other medicine that work better with IBS too?
if not,IS it better to use medicine with side effects or not using it and continue
to control it myself?

2-I have been suffering from BP when I was a little child and for somehow 8 years
without medicine or wrong medicine ,IS it possible to be cured if i use true medicines STILL??
(I am 22 years old)

3-I guess BP is caused by Genetics.My doctors never told me that I have BP (directly)
and said that you have mood changes and... .(I myself guessed because of above medcines
like orlept)
But there are so many of my family with different levels of distinguished Bipolar.
Is it true that it is caused by Genetics? Is it because of my brain?
Is it true that it causes creativity? ( I write & think very diffrently in Mania)

Thanks alot for your time & attention.
Sahar IranNejad  

Answer
Hi . . .

Bipolar disorder has a strong genetic basis.

The disorder can be controlled through the use of medication, but not cured.

It is not good to have many episodes of depression and/or mania as they harm the brain.

Medications such as lamotrigine and valproate are important ways of controlling the disorder.

Best regards . . .

Ivan
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