Posted by Mitch on July 16, 2001, at 23:53:16
In reply to Best Tolerated Anti-Convulsant for BP, posted by Mr.Scott on July 16, 2001, at 17:43:27
Mr. Scott,
You didn't mention Neurontin in your post. Have you tried that?? It has been found to be good for anxiety/depression/OCD/ADHD problems. Topamax might be helpful for the OCD-like symptoms too, but can cause a lot of cognitive dysfunction. From what you mentioned below-it sounds a lot like limbic ADHD. Have you tried a non-SSRI like Wellbutrin?? Or a secondary-amine TCA like Nortriptyline or Desipramine? Serious past coke trouble could be self-medication for ADHD.I can't handle Li due to GI disturbance and Depakote is easier to handle, but does practically zero for my depression. Haven't tried Lamictal yet.
This is a super long-shot, but what if you combined Neurontin (say 600mg/day)for obsessiveness/mood stabilization/attentiveness with Gabitril (say 4-8mg bedtime), which I have found to be activating/mood elevating-but don't go high on dose (esp. during the day) or you can get some cognitive trouble. Try that with NO ad's or benozs.??? If you still feel bummed-try 100mg Wellbutrin SR in the mornings. Just suggestions,
Mitch
> New doc with new DX same old drugs...
>
> It is possible that I suffer from a mixed bipolar II state, although until now I have always thought of myself as a chronically anxious depressive. Lithium and Depakote are out of the question for me as I find them to have obnoxious side effects. Does anyone know where I might turn next after these options? I am interested in Topamax and lamictal but have no experience or knowledge about them.
>
> If anyone has a moment to post let me know which I might try first.
>
> A bit more about me first..
> I am almost always depressed and anxious SSRI's help a little as do benzos but SSRI's also have many side effects for me and cause agitation and restlessness, had a history of childhood conduct disorder (possible ADHD). I have a normal to HIGH sex drive, if anything I overeat and oversleep, but would not if I wasn't on SSRI's and benzo's. My mind is NEVER at rest always filled with activity and often agony. I am extremely tired and am highly obsessive. A part of my brain is CLEARLY overactive. While my body feels as though it has been run over by a truck. I have tried to commit suicide seriously once about 5 years ago, and I frequently think about it. Every once in while I wake up feeling great then I begin to worry about bipolar disorder and my day is again ruined in a matter of hours. I have never had ANY florid MANIC symptoms (ie. Feeling godlike, and thinking I'm Jesus). I been been depressed for about 10 years now with several periods of feeling good. I did have a SERIOUS cocaine problem at one time.
>
> I currently hate my life, my girlfriend of 5 years and I broke up 8 weeks ago, I don't much care for my job, and I spend too much money (no discipline/impulsive).
>
> Please help me find some direction. I'm thinking anticonvulsants but these docs aren't half as good as their patients I'm finding..
>
> Mr.Scott
poster:Mitch
thread:70361
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010714/msgs/70433.html