Posted by SLS on May 6, 2000, at 23:44:03
In reply to Vagal nerve stimulation, posted by Chris A. on May 6, 2000, at 14:56:52
> Has anyone gone this route in treating an unstable mood disorder? My docs are suggesting implanting one, but I want to know as many of the pros and cons prior. Any comments would be appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Chris A.
Dear Chris,Unfortunately, I can't offer you any personal descriptions of experiences with VNS. I don't know anyone who has tried it.
I am interested as to why you feel you must head in this direction.
What do you mean by "unstable"?
How would you describe the major features of your mood states?
In what ways has your disorder interrupted your life?
Have you tried MAO inhibitors?
Have you tried ECT?
I guess my concern is that you may have overlooked some treatment strategies that you might want to consider before opting for a surgical implant. I am impressed with what I have seen so far regarding the efficacy of VNS. However, I'm not sure the reports generated by clinical trials pay as much attention to the negative aspects of this treatment as one would like. VNS has recently been approved to treat epilepsy.
- Scott
poster:SLS
thread:32546
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000429/msgs/32587.html