Posted by papillon2 on January 31, 2012, at 20:35:40
In reply to Scott - Re: Geodon/heart problems..., posted by sheilac on January 31, 2012, at 15:32:38
Lithium is better at treating mania than it is at treating depression, but it is referred to as the "Gold Standard" in treating bipolar disorder so I would assume it is good for bipolar depression too. Just not as much of a magic bullet perhaps? That said, Lithium is frequently used in treatment resistant depression to augment an antidepressant.
This might help you in your search - Cardiometabolic risks of antidepressant and anti-psychotic drugs.
The tables are the most useful part of these docs.
Do you take after that side of your family with the heart issues? My father's side have a ridicously high rate of cardio problems, with a significant number having had their first heart attacks before 30. I don't take after them at all however, having no weight or cholesterol problems. As such, having had my heart checked out (ECG, echo, stress echo - all clear), I feel reasonably safe in taking medication with cardio side effects - tachycardia, chest pain and palpitations. The side effects are uncomfortable and a nuisance but it is better than (a) worsening depression and (b) other medication with side effects that are more distressing, namely uncontrollable weight gain.
All the best,
PapillonRing the bells that still can ring
forget your perfect offering
there is a crack in everything
that's how the light gets in
~ Leonard Cohen
poster:papillon2
thread:1008467
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20120120/msgs/1008942.html