Posted by tom_traubert on November 10, 2004, at 20:03:28
I'm trying to find out if anyone has experienced a manic episode as a result of withdrawal from a tricyclic and benzo, or any for that matter, when bipolar disorder had not been diagnosed previously. I was taking high doses of anafranil and klonopin for ocd for a number of years, and started to drink and smoke marijuana heavily. I soon stopped taking my medication, and rocketed to the moon and came back down just as fast and strong. I went back on the medication, and a few years later did the whole damn thing again. So that's 2 manic episodes filled with every ugly symptom imaginable, followed by 2 long depressive episodes.
At heart, although diagnosed bipolar, the coincindence was too large, and I believe (but would like encouragement) that both manic episodes were preceded by med withdrawal. It's been over 5 years since I've taken any psychotropic medication at all, and it hasn't been easy. I still carry the very prominent fear of relapse, which causes me to question every very good and very bad emotion, which is something I'd like to deal better with. I'm on constant guard against another episode.
The one book I've found that discusses the withdrawal to mania link is "Your Drug May Be Your Problem" which is a good but limited book. They describe the effects of medications quite well, but I strongly disagree with their belief that no one should be on medication. (The meds saved my life at the time I started taking them, and I think that medication helps a lot of people get through a lot of difficult things. Now, this doesn't mean they shouldn't try to get off the drugs if they can, I just disagree with the idea that they should never start.)
My mind would be more at ease, and I think I would have a bit more courage in life if I thought that the manic episodes were strictly a result of the withdrawal, or in combination with marijuana and alcohol use. I would love to hear from anyone with a similar experience and how they got on with their lives. Also appreciated are observations and viewpoints from anyone on this site who'd like to respond.
Thanks.
poster:tom_traubert
thread:414392
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20041108/msgs/414392.html