Posted by fluffy on July 26, 2003, at 14:47:34
In reply to Re: Attn: Dali, posted by katia on July 26, 2003, at 14:09:32
Dear Katia,
I have no experience with Depakote. It's never been a med that my doc wanted to try on me. I think it's because it is helpful with mania, but not depression (that I know of). I don't get full blown mania, just major depression and hypomania. It has a reputation for causing weight gain. However, as far as I know, it helps relieve mixed states and rapid cycling. Sounds like you've got some of that going on.
But if you ask me, Lamictal would be the drug of choice. It's not a miracle drug--it may not work on everyone. But for me it's been a life saver. Have you tried any other mood stabilizers? Lamictal is also reputed to quell mixed states and rapid cycling. On top of that, it has an antidepressant effect. Other people prefer Tegretol, Depakote of Lithium alone or with the addition of an antidepressant. But given your record with them, I wouldn't reach for antidepressants until you give a mood stabilizer a good run.
Have you had a good, long talk about this with a psychiatrist that you trust? I'm certainly not a professional, but I can tell you my experience and share from the research I've read.
AD's put me in a terrible mixed state and made me feel worse. I also didn't know what the hell was wrong until it became full blown. I searched and searched, and figured it out. (i'm bipolar II or cyclothymic w/ major depression).
Tell me what meds you've tried before. Any lithium in there? Any other anti-epilepsy stuff?
Take lots of care,
Katy
poster:fluffy
thread:9730
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030723/msgs/245581.html