Expert: Ivan Goldberg, M.D. - 2/15/2007

Question
Hi. I had to go off my meds , 7-05 because of a very bad GI bleed had 4 units was very sick. Since then I know that I need to be back on the meds but I am so scared that they will cause yet another GI bleed. I have IBS, and divertitis. 40yrs old. and was wondering if you can by chance think of any meds that will help. I was on Depokote/respidone/seroqule. the depokote made me gain alot of weight and the respidone made me have parkison type problems. Stuttering and not being able to even sign my name and butter bread was really bad till the GI bleed. thanks for your help

Answer
Hi, Juli . . .

Both Depakote and risperidone have been reported to cause bleeding in some people.  Such bleeding has nto been reported in people taking Seroquel, lithium or Lamictal.

When prescribing for people with bipolar disorder, I try very hard to avoid the use of antipsychotic medications such as risperidone and Seroquel, unless the person has recently been psychotic. I prescribe a lot of Lamictal, often in association with lithium.

You may want to consult with one of the experts listed at:
http://www.psycom.net/depression.central.psychiatrists.html

Best regards . . .

Ivan
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