Posted by SheilaC on August 26, 2009, at 13:23:23
In reply to Re: SLS - Re: Mood Stabilizer for BPII? » SheilaC, posted by SLS on August 26, 2009, at 12:31:09
> > > > Now, why do you think that you need a mood stabilizer in the first place?
> > >
> > > Never mind. I can see why from reading your previous posts. Also, I see that Lamictal is not an option.
> > >
> > > Topamax 100mg might be an option. It works well for bipolar II mixed states. Also, lithium in low dosages acts as an antidepressant. I need to find out if its effects on the kidneys and thyroid are dose-dependant. One doctor I asked said that they were not dose-dependent. I am still dubious, though. If these effects are dose-dependent, then I don't think you would have much to fear from the low dosages used depression.
> > >
> > > I like Abilify for bipolar depression.
> > >
> > >
> > > - Scott
> >
> >
> > Scott, what about carbamazepine or the time released version of it, Equetro for a mood stabilizer? I loved Abilify, but hated the severe bloating.
> >
> > I took Trileptal years ago and they only issue I had with it was that it messed with my periods. Now I am in surgical menopause so I take estrogen.
> >
> > I've never taken carbamazepine before.
>
> I just so happened to come upon an article that reported that Trileptal, but not Tegretol, affected sex hormones and caused irregular bleeding or spotting. The only thing with Tegretol is that it might reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills if you don't make a compensatory increase in dosage. What preparation are you using for HRT?
>
>
> - ScottI am using an HRT patch. My doc is the one that brought up Equetro - which I never heard of until I read the label and it said extended release carbamazepine.
So I'm guessing that maybe Tegretol won't have the same hormone interference that Tripleptal did. Since I've had a total hysterectomy, I can always up my estrogen if the Tegetol interferes.
I'm wondering what the usual doseage is for this drug?
My doc suggested starting the Equetro at night at 100mg and working up to 200mg over a month or so (since I am med sensitive). She (the nurse) said that in time if the Equetro makes me groggy the next day I could drop the Seroquel.
poster:SheilaC
thread:914055
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20090826/msgs/914208.html