Posted by Sean on August 31, 1999, at 17:15:05
In reply to Re: lithium alternatives (due to side effects)?, posted by Katy on August 31, 1999, at 16:51:31
> > > I've taken lithium 900mg twice a day for eight years for the
> > > diagnosis of bipolar II. Hand tremors have been a
> > > problem virtually the entire time, as well as muscular
> > > weakness and weight gain. Admittedly, I eat too much
> > > and rarely exercise, but I'm only 36 years old and have
> > > no health problems, so I think lithium has a real effect.
> > > Basically, although I realize that the weight
> > > gain could be partially due to the hypothyroidism that lithium can
> > > bring on, my contribution is still the most
> > > influential. Incidentally, I take 40-60mg of Nadalol
> > > nightly to counter the the tremors. When I tell my doctor
> > > that my tremors are still a problem, she just suggests
> > > adding 20 mg of Nadalol which I fear just sedates me more
> > > and I dislike this very much.
> > > What have others taken for Bipolar II? What side effects
> > > have you experienced and how have they been countered
> > > etc.?
> > > Thank you!
> > > Katy
> >
> > Have you looked into Valproate, Carbemazepine,
> > Verapamil, Gabapentin, and Lamotrigine? These are
> > drugs originally designed for epilepsy that work
> > well for mood swings. Good luck...
> >
> > Sean.
>
> No, I haven't. Thank you very much for the tip.
> I see my psychiatrist today. Again, your taking
> the time to respond to my question is much appreciated.
> Are you aware of any particularly good support groups
> for bipolar disorder. Until now I didn't feel comortable
> with this.
> KatyKaty -
I stumbled upon this site by accident and it has
turned out to be great for me in terms of thinking
about meds. I'm also sometimes very touched by
the emotional support that goes on too, so keep
it bookmarked.For bipolar specific support, there is Pendulum
Resources, Fire and Ice, and Walkers in Darkness.
I don't know the URL's, but I was a visitor to
these sites for a while. Maybe try using a search
engine. Take care,Sean.
poster:Sean
thread:10812
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/19990829/msgs/10840.html