Posted by Christ_empowered on June 10, 2010, at 21:00:01
In reply to Why does Lithium make me feel so awful?, posted by former poster on June 10, 2010, at 20:06:23
Lithium, depakote, and the antipsychotics (yes, even the new ones) have a reputation for making people feel terrible. This is why so many people end up being coerced or straight up forced to take them (in mental hospitals or through out-patient commitment. Or both). Maybe its a good thing you feel this way? Think about it: even if you stayed on Lithium (or risperdal, or some other drug that makes you feel crappy after a while), you'd probably keep the dose minimal. This would minimize side-effects, costs, and brain damage. Over time, you'd be healthier, physically and emotionally, then someone who either didn't feel that way OR who followed the doc's advice and "toughed it out."
Besides, you're not missing out on anything. Long-term use of Lithium tends to cause kidney damage and some patients end up with cognitive impairment...and the "crappy" feeling is common; many people spend years, even decades, in a chemical straight jacket b/c they're afraid of another "episode."
If you can manage without drugs, especially the heavy stuff, by all means: do it.
poster:Christ_empowered
thread:950616
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20100604/msgs/950622.html