Posted by COLIN WALLACE on April 28, 2003, at 13:52:51
In reply to Help: Ron, Scott, Mitch...recently dx Bipolar II, posted by HOK on April 28, 2003, at 10:58:38
Hok,
Let's face it-it's quite bewildering to sift through all the masses of contradicary reports, findings and recommendations concerning BP11.
It's taken me three years(and the usual differing diagnoses)to get anywhere close to nailing the damn thing.
I was determined, at one point,to phase out AD's completely, in the hope that this would eventually settle my mood crashes and temper spells etc.
I had some great success with Lamictal monotherapy(9 months or so), particularly once I hit 300mg. Unfortunately, I also have crippling SAD to contend with, and Lamictal by itself just can't manage to fend it off.
I was never able to tolerate any AD by itself, but I've found that, under the cloak of Lamictal,I can get away with 10mg Prozac daily.
Boosted the Lamictal no end.No swings or irritability whatsoever-just the reverse in fact.If I find it necessary, I'll add a small amount of lithium.But the AD stays put, whatever.
My point is that, in principle it may be a great idea for BP11's to throw in the towel with AD's, but in practice, for major depressives like myself, it's just impossible- and dangerous too-and associated with a high rate of relapse(depending on what you read of course!!)Good luck,
Col.
poster:COLIN WALLACE
thread:222897
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030423/msgs/222926.html