Posted by Ritch on December 9, 2004, at 10:09:49
In reply to Could I be bipolar2, posted by Carrie Barton on December 8, 2004, at 13:32:40
> Just recently I quit smoking and drinking. Three months after, I began experiencing episodes of severe depression and panic. These attacks last about 4 days and I can't do ANYTHING when they happen. I am seeing a therapist and a psychiatist. I have been prescribed Lexapro but haven't felt much change. I've been on it for three weeks and am coming off of one of the biggest attacks I have had yet. My doctor said this medication can bring out bipolar2 in some cases and to watch for signs. I have been mostly depressed with a moment or two of feeling high.(Not great but like things will stablize) only to end up back in the pit. Does anyone have any experience with this with or without associations to quitting smoking and/or drinking? Thanks
I doubt that the Lexapro would *cause* bipolar illness, but it could cause manic symptoms to emerge. It doesn't sound like mania to me. You are probably just experiencing relief that the panic/depression is (albeit temporarily) being controlled. I used to be a heavy smoker and when I quit I didn't get depressed or panicky, but I definitely had a severe case of inattentiveness and confusion that was very frustrating. That lasted a few weeks then faded. ....Anyhow, it sounds like the Lexapro isn't doing much for your panic problems. Three weeks may be too early to tell, but I would bug your doctor about this. You said you just went through the biggest one yet-despite being on meds. You may be one of many folks that don't find SSRI's helpful for their panic and might do better with a tricyclic or an MAOI instead (or even trazodone or Remeron). Lorazepam or alprazolam might be better, but your doctor probably is reluctant to prescribe because of your alcohol abuse history. Bug your doctor about the *worsening* panic situation, that's my 2c. Worsening panic isn't necessarily bipolar disorder. The recurrent nature of the anx. and the duration is a little suspicious, but it's not definitive.
poster:Ritch
thread:426206
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20041206/msgs/426689.html