Posted by BetterDays on November 13, 2007, at 8:19:35
In reply to Bipolar II Qsss » BetterDays, posted by UgottaHaveHope on November 12, 2007, at 18:26:31
Hi Michael,
I've read some of your threads and I think we do have similiar issues.
I've had a long history of anxiety / panic attacks, with recent irritability, impulsivity, and depression. About 3 weeks ago my PDOC decided that these are symptoms of BP II. Not entirely sure how much I agree with the diagnosis, but have decided not to get stuck on that. Instead will focus on finding the right medications to help me with my panic / anxiety and other symptoms.
Paxil has worked well for me in the past for my panic attacks. I was on it for several years, it stopped working, I tried other AD's (none worked), and after a 1-2 year hiatus, have now restarted Paxil (last night).
I also started Lamictal and Lyrica. No bad side effects (it's only been 1 day) except that I didn't sleep well last night at all. From the archived posts I've read, and from what my PDoc told me, it will take a few weeks for Lamictal to settle down and hopefully hit the anxiety / depression. He said to be prepared that initially it may make me feel anxious, but to hang with it and the anxiety would very likely go away.
I did miss the Seroquel. Have you not had good luck with it helping you sleep? I took 100-150mg and it knocked me out (in a good way, didn't have the drunken feeling some report).
As far as the Seroquel, it's just a personal choice that I would rather try other things than an anti-psychotic for sleep (if the Lyrica doesn't end up working I will go back to Trazadone, which was a big help with my anxiety and a great sleep aid for me prior to the BP II diagnosis).
I was on benzos for a long time - Xanax and Klonopin, but I would rather use those for emergency panic situations (driving, presentations at work....).
I'm not sure what to expect from the Lamictal so am going with the flow with crossed fingers for good results.
I would very much like to hear of your experiences.
Best Wishes, Shelly
> BetterDays:
>
> I have been taking Seroquel (100-300mg), Klonopin (2-3mg), and Nardil (45-60mg) for anxiety and depression, but now my pdoc thinks I may have BPII, therefore added Lamictal today because I have had sleeping issues.
>
> How did the pdoc decide you were BPII?
>
> How long have you had that diagnosis?
>
> Do you have Babblemail? If not, please send me an email at sportscarvell@yahoo.com. I would love to discuss more, seems we have a lot in common. Thanks, Michael
poster:BetterDays
thread:794637
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20071104/msgs/794796.html