Posted by Jim Bob on August 26, 2002, at 19:38:38
Hello all,
I have a rather complicated case that I'd like your opinions on. I've been treated on and off for depression for the past 6 yrs. This started out with Elavil and Xanax, and then moved on to a whole slew of other antidepressants, including Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, and Sinequan. Interspersed with this has been a history of drug abuse, including cocaine, marijuana, extasy, pain meds., and benzos.
Several months ago, with a terrible bout of depression, I admitted myself to an inpatient Psych. program. I was immediately put back on Prozac with Wellbutrin, plus Lithobid and Geodon. After a week or so I felt as though I'd come out of my skin, and impulsively changed physicians. The new doctor put me on Serzone and Buspar initially.
After a few weeks, I was suffering from memory loss and dizziness, so I stopped both medications. The doctor now has me on Prozac and Risperdal for about 2 wks. now.
On top of this, I've also had Crohn's disease, a GI condition, for about 6 yrs. It is currently in remission, but I had long periods of corticosteroid therapy in the mix. I'm no longer on prednisone, and am simply on a maintenance drug, Imuran.
I'm suffering, and have been suffering with fatigue, apathy, and extreme difficulty concentrating for years now. I also continue having a problem with impulsivity, such as high spending and drug binges. I personally believe that I might have ADHD, misread as bipolar, and believe that a stimulant such as Adderal or Dexedrine in adjunct with an antidepressant and possibly a mild antipsychotic to prevent mania, might help my focus and give me energy. Any opinions? Will a doctor even consider this regimen for someone suspected to be bipolar with a history of drug abuse?
The more I reflect, the more I see what need the cocaine was fulfilling. I would stay up for nights on end dosing with caffeine pills and cocaine, usually during finals in order to be able to sit in front of a book and study. I think that often my cocaine binges were misinterpreted as manic episodes, and much of my depression comes from the fact that it's so difficult for me to sit down and get work done. I'm just afraid that I've been labeled a certain way by my physician(s), and that nothing I say will affect his line of therapy.
Oh yea, and I'm 20 yrs. old. I've had Crohn's and the depression beginning at age 14. I'm currently a senior in college, and I'd like nothing more than to be able to enjoy my life.
Regards,
Jim
poster:Jim Bob
thread:117819
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020821/msgs/117819.html