Posted by Sean on October 28, 1999, at 11:20:33
In reply to Re: Mood Stabilizers, posted by Elizabeth on October 28, 1999, at 10:32:07
> > Has anyone heard of any documentation that Neurontin or Lamictal are being used as the first line of treatment for cyclothymia? Are these newer meds "safer" than Lithium or Depakote since they do not require blood level checks? Are they supposed to be more or as effective? If Lamictal causes a bad reaction (hypomania/nightmares/pain/etc.) would it be safe to try Neurontin?
>
> For their use as first-line agents, or in cyclothymia specifically? No. However, as far as I know, treatments for cyclothymia are pretty much the same as for bipolar II, and Lamictal and Neurontin both have been studied for that.
>
> As for the first-line-ness, I think Neurontin is probably the "safest" of them all in that it doesn't have any of those "rare-but-potentially-dangerous" side effects (none that I can think of, anyway), whereas I'm sure you were cautioned to tell your doctor immediately if you develop a rash on Lamictal.
>
> They are definitely better tolerated than lithium or Depakote (i.e., fewer side effects). I had no side effects from Lamictal (up to 500mg), and the only SE's I had from Neurontin were drowsiness (mild) and the munchies (the reason I didn't stay on it - I gather this is not a common problem, BTW).Hi-
Neurontin is very safe although I've found that
it is quite sedating. Safer than lithium for sure,
as people have injested mass quantities of Neurontin
and lived to tell the tale.At this point, the use of Neurontin for mood
stabilization is still in the off-label phase.
There are a handful good studies, but nothing yet
that suggests "first-line" treatment status.
However, some p-docs on the cutting edge may
use it in this manner based on their personal
experience. As with all this stuff, you need to
try it personally.Sean.
poster:Sean
thread:14073
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/19991028/msgs/14092.html