Expert: Ivan Goldberg, M.D. - 7/19/2007

Question
My husband was diagnosed as being bipolar approx 10 years ago.  He has been stable on Lamictal and Wellbutrin for some.  Unfortunately, he has developed a lip licking/throat clearing tic, believed to be associated with an anti-nausea medicine he has been on.  He went to a neurologist who prescribed serequel, which made him hyperantic; then geodon, which makes him sleep approx. 18 out of 24 hours; and the clonipin, which did nothing, so he went back on geodon.  He is being more and more depressed.  Unfortunately, his psychiatrist has Parkinson's and is no longer able to work with his patients; however, he is still seeing them.  My husband is on Medicare and few psychiatrists in this area (Lex., KY) will take new Medicare patients.  Can you recommend a new dr, new meds or a suggestion as to what to do?

Answer
Hi . . .

Diagnosis at a distance is impossible, but it may be that your husband has tardive dyskinesia. he should be seen in the neurology clcinic of a hospital associted with a medical school.
I think one of the two medical schools in KY is in Lexington, and they must have a neurology clinic with experts in movement disorders there.

Best regards . . .
Ivan
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