![[dr. bob]](/dr-bob-sm.gif)
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 24 of 24. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Pegeeno on June 7, 2000, at 18:30:11
Hello,
I have been researching a drug called Topamax (topiramate) for bipolar disorder and was wondering if anyone has been using it and if you have had good results? Thanks!
Posted by Sassy on June 20, 2000, at 16:36:18
In reply to Has anyone been taking Topamax? Good results?, posted by Pegeeno on June 7, 2000, at 18:30:11
Hi,
Been looking for information myself.
New Doc just prescribed topomax to counteract weight gain problem with effexor (wants me to try again)along with ranidine (antiacid).
So far, taking low dose of effexor 75 mg will eventually go to 300 mg. Now taking 150 mg of ranidine and 50 mg of topomax at night.
I feel tired, a little drugged, headache in frontal lobe, carbonated drinks taste funny, concentration difficult and scared of the weight gain.
I've asked this question a million times, but does the higher doseage of effexor prevent the weight gain?
I've gained 50 lbs before this combo. Been off the med for a couple of months until recently. I'm wondering if that tired feeling is from the effexor or the topomax.Anyone else doctor prescribe combos to counteract weight gain?
Sassy
> Hello,
>
> I have been researching a drug called Topamax (topiramate) for bipolar disorder and was wondering if anyone has been using it and if you have had good results? Thanks!
Posted by Margaret on June 21, 2000, at 20:17:08
In reply to Re: TOPOMAX AND EFFEXOR COMBOS, posted by Sassy on June 20, 2000, at 16:36:18
Hi there, I was interested in your question since I have wondered if topomax did work to help with the weightgain from the AD's. I just finished reading an article you may be interested in. It can be found through http://my.webmd.com/content/article/1728.58250
I would love to hear how you are doing on this combo. If I find any more info out I will definitely let you know. Take care and good luck
Posted by Janice on June 21, 2000, at 23:40:40
In reply to Re: TOPOMAX AND EFFEXOR COMBOS, posted by Sassy on June 20, 2000, at 16:36:18
hello Sassy,
You could be tired because one of Topamax's side effects is drowsiness, and I have read other posters on Topamax say that carbonated drinks taste funny after starting Topamax. I just started it about a week ago at 25mg for my bipolar disorder. I specifically requested a stabilizer with antidepressant qualities and that didn't cause weight gain. So far I feel no side effects.
Sassy, there is no way to predict weight gain, there are only generalizations that people make. Each person seems to react differently to each medication. I would however think it would be safe to assume that a higher dose of a medication that previously made someone gain weight would most likely continue to contribute to weight gain. Hopefully the Topamax will help you with preventing the weight gain that Effexor seems to give you.
I do believe weight gain can certainly contribute to depression. I went to the article Margaret suggested and certainly liked what I read. The only other medication I've used that had weight control attributes was a stimulant, which would also be good for depression. Some doctors would be hesitant to prescribe it as it can be abused. I'm very paranoid about my weight. I figure if I don't gain it, I won't have to lose it.
Good luck Sassy, Janice
Posted by Sassy on June 22, 2000, at 13:41:23
In reply to Re: TOPOMAX AND EFFEXOR COMBOS, posted by Janice on June 21, 2000, at 23:40:40
Hi Margaret and Janice,
So far I've gained 10 pounds more. However, I don't feel heavier or bloated like before. I am suppose to now increase the TOPOMAX doseage
by taking 25 mg in the am along with the 50 mg pm doseage and everything else. I don't think so!!
I can't go to dreamland on this job. Oh well, it
was worth the try with the effexor.I really appreciate the info for the article.
I'll be keeping my eye out for anything on the
subject.Thanks a bunch!
Sassy
> hello Sassy,
>
> You could be tired because one of Topamax's side effects is drowsiness, and I have read other posters on Topamax say that carbonated drinks taste funny after starting Topamax. I just started it about a week ago at 25mg for my bipolar disorder. I specifically requested a stabilizer with antidepressant qualities and that didn't cause weight gain. So far I feel no side effects.
>
> Sassy, there is no way to predict weight gain, there are only generalizations that people make. Each person seems to react differently to each medication. I would however think it would be safe to assume that a higher dose of a medication that previously made someone gain weight would most likely continue to contribute to weight gain. Hopefully the Topamax will help you with preventing the weight gain that Effexor seems to give you.
>
> I do believe weight gain can certainly contribute to depression. I went to the article Margaret suggested and certainly liked what I read. The only other medication I've used that had weight control attributes was a stimulant, which would also be good for depression. Some doctors would be hesitant to prescribe it as it can be abused. I'm very paranoid about my weight. I figure if I don't gain it, I won't have to lose it.
>
> Good luck Sassy, Janice
Posted by ray on July 1, 2000, at 20:35:19
In reply to Re: TOPOMAX AND EFFEXOR COMBOS, posted by Sassy on June 20, 2000, at 16:36:18
> Hi,
>
> Been looking for information myself.
>
> New Doc just prescribed topomax to counteract weight gain problem with effexor (wants me to try again)along with ranidine (antiacid).
>
> So far, taking low dose of effexor 75 mg will eventually go to 300 mg. Now taking 150 mg of ranidine and 50 mg of topomax at night.
>
> I feel tired, a little drugged, headache in frontal lobe, carbonated drinks taste funny, concentration difficult and scared of the weight gain.
>
> I've asked this question a million times, but does the higher doseage of effexor prevent the weight gain?
> I've gained 50 lbs before this combo. Been off the med for a couple of months until recently. I'm wondering if that tired feeling is from the effexor or the topomax.
>
> Anyone else doctor prescribe combos to counteract weight gain?
>
> Sassy
>
I'll give you my individual experience than I'll share with you some statistical data about your questions.First, my personal experiences. I'm currently on Effexor XR and my doctor recently prescribed Topamax for me to see if it could help me lose the weight I gained on Zoloft (Zoloft worked well for a few years before it finally fizzed out. I gained over 100lbs on Zoloft). My doctor told me every patient he had put on Topamax had lost weight. I couldn't argue with that. Effexor XR has had no effect either way on my appetite or weight.
He started me at 25mg Topamax at night. I took it for three nights. It did help promote sleep and didn't leave me drowsy in the morning, but after three days my depression was a lot worse. Although I can't say there was a definite connection, it was enough for me to quit the Topamax. I may try it again later just in case it was a coincidence. I didn't notice a decrease in appetite or any weight loss, but I don't think three days is a good time period to make that judgement.
Now for some info. about your questions:Per the drug company's patient information sheet a dose of 375mg of regular Effexor (not XR) is slightly less likely than a 75mg dose of Effexor to increase your appetite and weight. However, I do not think the difference is statistically significantly (17% vs. 15%). In short, increasing the dose should not increase your appetite or cause weight gain; nor will it likely cause your appetite to decrease or cause weight loss. But as with everybody, your own results may very.
As for what is causing your tiredness it could be individual things or a combination of things. You mentioned you took the Effexor before. Unless you took something else with the Effexor at that time you should remember if it increased your fatigue. Although from most of the post I've read, people indicate Effexor is energizing. I never found it so myself, and the data shows it causes more sleepiness than placebo although the same data shows it causes more anxiety than placebo (you would think the more anxiety a drug might cause the less sleepiness it might cause...maybe that just my thinking.)
Topamax is likely to increase your sleepiness. I assume your PDOC has prescribed it so that you take the entire dose at bedtime. If not, I would ask him why you couldn’t take the entire dose at bedtime. If he mentions something about half-life, then you might request he research the drug a little more. I believe the data supports the drug can be administered once daily. If you are taking the entire dose at bedtime, it might be causing some grogginess the next morning but I wouldn't think that last past the morning.
Finally, your depression could be causing your fatigue.
Lastly, and I'll resort back to Effexor's patient information sheet for this, increasing the dose of Effexor is likely to increase your sleepiness (26%@ 375mg, 17%@ 75 mg). But again, your results may vary.
Good luck
Posted by Janice on July 2, 2000, at 23:19:17
In reply to Re: TOPOMAX AND EFFEXOR COMBOS, posted by ray on July 1, 2000, at 20:35:19
Just to confuse everyone, I'm on Topamax for my bipolar at 75 mg a day, and it seems to affecting me in opposites ways as to how it should be:
•I've gained about 4kg (about 10lbs). This could also be due to stopping Dexedrine, which may have been supressing my appetite, and not being able to run due to a knee injury. But I am hungry all the time!
•My sleep has been very poor since I've started it. This could also be due to not being able to run.Best of all and most importantly of all my mood is GREAT. Desperately hoping this lasts. I can handle the above (i think).
we sure are all different!
Janice
Posted by SLS on July 3, 2000, at 7:11:45
In reply to Topamax and weight and sleep and mood, posted by Janice on July 2, 2000, at 23:19:17
> Just to confuse everyone, I'm on Topamax for my bipolar at 75 mg a day, and it seems to affecting me in opposites ways as to how it should be:
>
> •I've gained about 4kg (about 10lbs). This could also be due to stopping Dexedrine, which may have been supressing my appetite, and not being able to run due to a knee injury. But I am hungry all the time!
> •My sleep has been very poor since I've started it. This could also be due to not being able to run.
>
> Best of all and most importantly of all my mood is GREAT. Desperately hoping this lasts. I can handle the above (i think).
>
> we sure are all different!
>
> Janice
Dear Janice,I have a few quickie questions.
1. How long have you been taking Topomax?
2. How long did take to start working?
3. Can you describe what ways it has improved your condition?
4. What other drugs are you currently taking?I'm hoping it lasts too. Good luck. Thanks.
- Scott
Posted by Cam W. on July 3, 2000, at 11:12:22
In reply to Re: Topamax and weight and sleep and mood » Janice , posted by SLS on July 3, 2000, at 7:11:45
Janice - Scott has some good questions. Here is some facts about Topamax:
1) Not everyone loses weight with Topamax, only about 20% or so of people.
2) People seem to only start losing weight when they reach doses of about 200mg per day.
Also, you are probably right about the Dexedrine suppressing your appetite. This and the decrease in exercise are probably the reason you've gained 4kg. Two words Janice: "rabbit food" ;^)
Filling up on salads, carrots, celery, etc won't leave room for carbohydrates.
Good luck - Cam
Posted by Sassy on July 3, 2000, at 15:14:33
In reply to Re: TOPOMAX AND EFFEXOR COMBOS, posted by ray on July 1, 2000, at 20:35:19
> > Hi,
> >
> > Been looking for information myself.
> >
> > New Doc just prescribed topomax to counteract weight gain problem with effexor (wants me to try again)along with ranidine (antiacid).
> >
> > So far, taking low dose of effexor 75 mg will eventually go to 300 mg. Now taking 150 mg of ranidine and 50 mg of topomax at night.
> >
> > I feel tired, a little drugged, headache in frontal lobe, carbonated drinks taste funny, concentration difficult and scared of the weight gain.
> >
> > I've asked this question a million times, but does the higher doseage of effexor prevent the weight gain?
> > I've gained 50 lbs before this combo. Been off the med for a couple of months until recently. I'm wondering if that tired feeling is from the effexor or the topomax.
> >
> > Anyone else doctor prescribe combos to counteract weight gain?
> >
> > Sassy
> >
>
>
> I'll give you my individual experience than I'll share with you some statistical data about your questions.
>
> First, my personal experiences. I'm currently on Effexor XR and my doctor recently prescribed Topamax for me to see if it could help me lose the weight I gained on Zoloft (Zoloft worked well for a few years before it finally fizzed out. I gained over 100lbs on Zoloft). My doctor told me every patient he had put on Topamax had lost weight. I couldn't argue with that. Effexor XR has had no effect either way on my appetite or weight.
>
> He started me at 25mg Topamax at night. I took it for three nights. It did help promote sleep and didn't leave me drowsy in the morning, but after three days my depression was a lot worse. Although I can't say there was a definite connection, it was enough for me to quit the Topamax. I may try it again later just in case it was a coincidence. I didn't notice a decrease in appetite or any weight loss, but I don't think three days is a good time period to make that judgement.
>
>
> Now for some info. about your questions:
>
> Per the drug company's patient information sheet a dose of 375mg of regular Effexor (not XR) is slightly less likely than a 75mg dose of Effexor to increase your appetite and weight. However, I do not think the difference is statistically significantly (17% vs. 15%). In short, increasing the dose should not increase your appetite or cause weight gain; nor will it likely cause your appetite to decrease or cause weight loss. But as with everybody, your own results may very.
>
> As for what is causing your tiredness it could be individual things or a combination of things. You mentioned you took the Effexor before. Unless you took something else with the Effexor at that time you should remember if it increased your fatigue. Although from most of the post I've read, people indicate Effexor is energizing. I never found it so myself, and the data shows it causes more sleepiness than placebo although the same data shows it causes more anxiety than placebo (you would think the more anxiety a drug might cause the less sleepiness it might cause...maybe that just my thinking.)
>
> Topamax is likely to increase your sleepiness. I assume your PDOC has prescribed it so that you take the entire dose at bedtime. If not, I would ask him why you couldn’t take the entire dose at bedtime. If he mentions something about half-life, then you might request he research the drug a little more. I believe the data supports the drug can be administered once daily. If you are taking the entire dose at bedtime, it might be causing some grogginess the next morning but I wouldn't think that last past the morning.
>
> Finally, your depression could be causing your fatigue.
>
> Lastly, and I'll resort back to Effexor's patient information sheet for this, increasing the dose of Effexor is likely to increase your sleepiness (26%@ 375mg, 17%@ 75 mg). But again, your results may vary.
>
> Good luck
>
>
>Ray,
Thanks so much for your information. I tried
taking it in the higher doseages and lower doseages, but I guess I started getting neurotic
because of the weight.I had no success with the combination and ended
up going cold turkey off the effexor. I lost
15 pounds. I am still taking the topomax, but not
sure what it is really going.I have a headache in the frontal lobe daily and
stuff like tylenol doesn't help it.I've come to the opinion at least for now that
the effexor is just too toxic for my body.I'd rather deal with the state of mind I have
now and find something else and keep the weight
down because I was really getting scared.Sassy
Posted by Janice on July 4, 2000, at 22:51:34
In reply to Re: Topamax and weight and sleep and mood » Janice , posted by SLS on July 3, 2000, at 7:11:45
Dear Scott,
1. How long have you been taking Topomax?About three weeks now.
2. How long did take to start working?
It seemed like right away, day 2. So I suspect other things are helping, lithium and in summer time (I'm extremely sensitive to light).
3. Can you describe what ways it has improved your condition?
I am more stable and less depressed. I think I feel normal.
4. What other drugs are you currently taking?
900 mg of lithium (I was at 1200mg of lithium, but it put my blood levels at 1.5, so I had to cut back and add something else)
Cyclen birth control pillI hope you find something Scott. I hope this lasts past the summer. I think it may. Good luck. I am concerned about Chris A. Take care Scott. Janice
Posted by Janice on July 4, 2000, at 22:55:41
In reply to Re: Topamax and weight and sleep and mood, posted by Cam W. on July 3, 2000, at 11:12:22
I have nothing against rabbits or their cuisine.
I guess it's the organization that overwhelms me, and then lugging all those carrots, etc around
Thanks, Janice
Posted by SLS on July 5, 2000, at 7:54:13
In reply to Re: Topamax and weight and sleep and mood, posted by Janice on July 4, 2000, at 22:51:34
Dear Janice,
I imagine that it is not always necessary to thank someone here for posting replies. But I feel like thanking you anyway for your help and concern. Thank you.
I will offer up a prayer for you that you continue to remain stable and enjoy the rewards that life has to offer you. I know that intuition and gut feelings aren't very reliable, but I am smiling because your description of how you feel is so encouraging.
Get and stay well.
I am concerned about Chris A. also. I have been watching the board hoping to see his name reappear. I guess I'll say a prayer for him too. I have a feeling that he is being taken care of. I hope so.
Love,
Scott
> Dear Scott,
>
>
> 1. How long have you been taking Topomax?
>
> About three weeks now.
>
> 2. How long did take to start working?
>
> It seemed like right away, day 2. So I suspect other things are helping, lithium and in summer time (I'm extremely sensitive to light).
>
> 3. Can you describe what ways it has improved your condition?
>
> I am more stable and less depressed. I think I feel normal.
>
> 4. What other drugs are you currently taking?
>
> 900 mg of lithium (I was at 1200mg of lithium, but it put my blood levels at 1.5, so I had to cut back and add something else)
> Cyclen birth control pill
>
> I hope you find something Scott. I hope this lasts past the summer. I think it may. Good luck. I am concerned about Chris A. Take care Scott. Janice
Posted by Lauren on August 12, 2000, at 12:26:46
In reply to Has anyone been taking Topamax? Good results?, posted by Pegeeno on June 7, 2000, at 18:30:11
> Hello,
>
> I just started taking topamax for migrane headaches. Within just a couple days I have dizziness and numbing sensations in my hands and on my face. did any of you experience this reaction? If so, does it go away after continuous use?Thanks!
Lauren
Posted by Lana on August 12, 2000, at 14:54:39
In reply to Re: Topamax and weight and sleep and mood, posted by Janice on July 4, 2000, at 22:51:34
hello, i was so happy when i found yall discusing not only bi-polar,topamax,and on top of that effexor.i started crying. but i guess that would just be typical of a maniac ha ha! i
was dianosed bi-polar when i was 15 and now am 32.
i have taken lithium,depakote,prozac,zoloft,paxil,
neurontin,wellbutrin,risperdal,elevil,thorzine,effexor,topamax,and clonapen the latter being for anxiety and panic disorter.my doc had me on effexor and neurontin combo.the problem was the
neurontin apparently not controlling my disease
but i had a horribly deminished lack of coordination.i had bruises aall the time and still have scars from falling.so about a month ago
he decided as alast effort to put me on topamax.he
was concerned because i am only 5'2" and 116lbs.i
also was taking 115mg of effexor which was not causing any weaght gain.he put me on 100mgs of topamax and witin 10 days i lost 6lbs.but my mood
over a 1month time period went from a roller coster ride,severe mania to suicidal to almost
level.that has never happened to me before. even
since childhood.since then he has increased my dosage to 200mgs and taken me off the effexor completely.my weight has remained steady but we
agreed that if i become underweight tat steps can be taken.this all seems so promising but and im
sure yall always know theres always a but.i am
experiencing some hopefully temporary but pretty
tough side affects other than the weight loss.
i noticed someone said somethin about carbonated
drinks and im so glad because i thought it was the
heat on the trucks in texas delivering the beer
ruining it but i think we have gathered enough evidence here to conclude that topamx is the culprit.so much for miller time at twilight out by the pool.but on a more serious note my list
of symptoms are (please remember im taking 200mgs)
very cloudy urine,sleeplessness 5:am,extreme dizziness,unable to focus,confusion,headache,
memory loss,triple effect when i use my tanquilizers to the point of passing out but i
learned quickly from that mistake,blurred vision.i would really love keeping in touch with
yall. we all have this in common and we are such
a rare breed of bird.
yours truly
lana
Posted by Blackswamp on August 16, 2000, at 12:02:57
In reply to Re: Has anyone been taking Topamax? Good results? » Pegeeno, posted by Lauren on August 12, 2000, at 12:26:46
> > Hello,
> >
> > I just started taking topamax for migrane headaches. Within just a couple days I have dizziness and numbing sensations in my hands and on my face. did any of you experience this reaction? If so, does it go away after continuous use?
>
> Thanks!
> LaurenLauren,
I also started taking Topamax for migraines. The headaches seemed to
improve, but the numbness, tingling and eventually crampy feelings in
my arms and legs, and my face one day, drove me nuts. I tapered
the dose back to only 25 mg/day and still had the side effects.
I quit the topamax altogether last week and the symptoms have
finally disappeared. Unfortunatly, my migraines increased again, too.Good luck with it. After almost 2 months, I lost the patience to wait
for the side effects to subside. In my case they only got worse.
It's depressing, since the topamax is the only drug that actually helped
control my migraines.leigh
Posted by Marsha Danielson on August 28, 2000, at 20:39:05
In reply to Re: Topamax and weight and sleep and mood » Janice, posted by Lana on August 12, 2000, at 14:54:39
> Hello i was so happy that you all wrote in and talked about this medication. My soon to be husband takes this medication and he has been on it for 2 months and he has lost 30 pounds. He has experinced alot of the same side effects as you all have. The numb ness the tingling and so fourth. He would also like to know if any of you have been more moodier than normal. I have noiticed it alot to the point that you can not even be around him. If you could respond back and let me know if it is the same for you.
You all take care,Marsha
hello, i was so happy when i found yall discusing not only bi-polar,topamax,and on top of that effexor.i started crying. but i guess that would just be typical of a maniac ha ha! i
> was dianosed bi-polar when i was 15 and now am 32.
> i have taken lithium,depakote,prozac,zoloft,paxil,
> neurontin,wellbutrin,risperdal,elevil,thorzine,effexor,topamax,and clonapen the latter being for anxiety and panic disorter.my doc had me on effexor and neurontin combo.the problem was the
> neurontin apparently not controlling my disease
> but i had a horribly deminished lack of coordination.i had bruises aall the time and still have scars from falling.so about a month ago
> he decided as alast effort to put me on topamax.he
> was concerned because i am only 5'2" and 116lbs.i
> also was taking 115mg of effexor which was not causing any weaght gain.he put me on 100mgs of topamax and witin 10 days i lost 6lbs.but my mood
> over a 1month time period went from a roller coster ride,severe mania to suicidal to almost
> level.that has never happened to me before. even
> since childhood.since then he has increased my dosage to 200mgs and taken me off the effexor completely.my weight has remained steady but we
> agreed that if i become underweight tat steps can be taken.this all seems so promising but and im
> sure yall always know theres always a but.i am
> experiencing some hopefully temporary but pretty
> tough side affects other than the weight loss.
> i noticed someone said somethin about carbonated
> drinks and im so glad because i thought it was the
> heat on the trucks in texas delivering the beer
> ruining it but i think we have gathered enough evidence here to conclude that topamx is the culprit.so much for miller time at twilight out by the pool.but on a more serious note my list
> of symptoms are (please remember im taking 200mgs)
> very cloudy urine,sleeplessness 5:am,extreme dizziness,unable to focus,confusion,headache,
> memory loss,triple effect when i use my tanquilizers to the point of passing out but i
> learned quickly from that mistake,blurred vision.
>
> i would really love keeping in touch with
> yall. we all have this in common and we are such
> a rare breed of bird.
> yours truly
> lana
>
Posted by David D C on January 14, 2001, at 22:04:11
In reply to Re: TOPOMAX AND EFFEXOR COMBOS(Ray), posted by Sassy on July 3, 2000, at 15:14:33
Hi I am new to the list and NOT new to depression. I am a 15 year veteran mostly in complete misery. Only one remission for a year on Parnate. I have been on effexor for 5 weeks and as I slowly climbed the ladder to 225MG I can sleep all day and with clomazapam I sleep 2 hour stints at night. I have learned to take it all at night with the clozmaxapm for the anxiety and finally today I had a decent day.Thak you God. Ya I really got out of bed and ran errands. I slipped miday and got tired but the doc said that is normal.I read alot. Sometimes to much but if you read the lit. that comes in the samples about a hundred times you will find it says it can cause some thyroid problems which can definelty relate to weigh gain or loss. Have yourelf checked for thyroid problems or anything else that dam literature says. We are taking chemicals into our body that are suppose to help us and I learned along time ago that even Dr's can use a bit of suggestion sometimes. I hope this one works I am getting tired of this roller coaster. Good Luck to all and I like reading the posts... David
Posted by MountainAngel on May 28, 2002, at 14:33:53
In reply to Re: Topamax and weight and sleep and mood, posted by Marsha Danielson on August 28, 2000, at 20:39:05
I know these posts are old and I was wondering if any of you are still on Topamax. I have been on it for about a week and I have various symptoms matching each of you. Like many of you I have tried various medications for Depression/Bi-polar they can't seem to make up their minds whats ailing me....
I have been on depakote [a major pain!!!], pamelar, triavil, remeron, on man I just can't remember them all, they don't know if I am psychotic, depressed or bipolar and it gets really tough being a guina pig.
Well, for now, I am on Topamax, they say the next step is Lithium, but I think I will put my foot down on that one. Depakote turned me into a raving luntic zombie if any of you can relate to that one. And, as far as I understand, the only difference between it and Lithium is the clearing method Liver -vs- Kidney. The doc keeps telling me I am very drug sensitive and I can't see how something stronger will be better for me if I am reacting to the weaker stuff.
So what is Topamax doing for me? First I should tell you that I have only been on it for a week and I am taking 50 mg a day, [I just started 100 mg today] so here goes....
1. I have lost 10 pounds... [that's good because I am still 50 pounds over weight, I would like to see this trend continue.]
2. I have some days when my moods are level, but other days I am a complete terror, I have a really hard time not speaking my mind, so most days I find it best just to stay home and keep my mouth shut. My spouse has been having a hard time because I don't hold anything back from that one. The "D" word has been mentioned, but not seriously, I hope!!! I am very hard to please so the best thing is not to try and the worst thing is to try to patronize me, really sets me off.
3. I don't sleep well, I want to sleep and I want to nap, but it doesn't happen. I am restless most of the time. It's like I want something, but I can't put my finger on what it is. I am tired so very tired, but rest doesn't come, even if I "sleep" it seems as if my mind is still running and running.
4. Now this one sounds crazy and it is hard to explain and the title we have put on it is birds in my head. I get a sensation in my head that feels like one of the following
a.) An electric shock without the pain
b.) A flash buld without the light
c.) The rush of a birds wing [ergo our pet name]When this comes I have to lay down or I get sick to my stomach.
The question is how much is from the meds and how much is from the disease, hard to tell I have been on meds so long I have a hard time telling one from the other.
I was on Prozac and it worked for a very long time, then one day it quit and I went into a very deep depression and we have been playing with meds ever since and I haven't felt right in such a very long time. I thing the Prozac gave me a hypo manic sensation and I really liked being there, kinda happy-go-lucky with no cares... I wish I could have those days back again.
So if any of you are still out there please let me know, I would like to know how these meds work on a longer scale of usage.
Thanks.
Posted by sjb on May 29, 2002, at 12:45:14
In reply to Re: Topamax and weight and sleep and mood, posted by MountainAngel on May 28, 2002, at 14:33:53
> I know these posts are old and I was wondering if any of you are still on Topamax. I have been on it for about a week and I have various symptoms matching each of you. Like many of you I have tried various medications for Depression/Bi-polar they can't seem to make up their minds whats ailing me....
>I am on Topomax now for the second go-around and now am up to 100 bid. Started about 3 months ago. I have tried over 20 different meds and combos and have different diagnosis and or told I was a "tough case."
> I have been on depakote [a major pain!!!], pamelar, triavil, remeron, on man I just can't remember them all, they don't know if I am psychotic, depressed or bipolar and it gets really tough being a guina pig.
I've never tried any of these.
> Well, for now, I am on Topamax, they say the next step is Lithium, but I think I will put my foot down on that one.I tried Lithium and had an awful time with stomach pains, dirrahea, and lethargy, esp in the middle of the night. I did not stay on it for long.
Depakote turned me into a raving luntic zombie if any of you can relate to that one. And, as far as I understand, the only difference between it and Lithium is the clearing method Liver -vs- Kidney. The doc keeps telling me I am very drug sensitive and I can't see how something stronger will be better for me if I am reacting to the weaker stuff.
>
> So what is Topamax doing for me? First I should tell you that I have only been on it for a week and I am taking 50 mg a day, [I just started 100 mg today] so here goes....
>Ok, a week is not a long time, esp. if you are sensistive to meds and are started it for the first time. I had a bit of a difficult period for the first week adjusting to it and I believe I started out on 25 mg and it may have even been at every other day.
> 1. I have lost 10 pounds... [that's good because I am still 50 pounds over weight, I would like to see this trend continue.]
>
Great. So did I and so would I but mine was temoporary.
> 2. I have some days when my moods are level, but other days I am a complete terror, I have a really hard time not speaking my mind, so most days I find it best just to stay home and keep my mouth shut. My spouse has been having a hard time because I don't hold anything back from that one. The "D" word has been mentioned, but not seriously, I hope!!! I am very hard to please so the best thing is not to try and the worst thing is to try to patronize me, really sets me off.This is so true for me too!!! I feel really angry at a lot of people. Like all of a sudden, a lot of people are stupid or irritating or just not worth it being around. I thought it was the Luvox, whcih I'm on also, but I think it's worse since I've started the Topomax. I've found myself doing the same thing you're doing, either avioding situation were I think I may loose it, or apoligizing, or just obsessing over something someone said and steaming to myself. Anyway, I'm starting to write down stuff more and now that I recogize and, hopefully, get my period soon, that will get better. I'm going to ask my PDoc about this.
>
> 3. I don't sleep well, I want to sleep and I want to nap, but it doesn't happen. I am restless most of the time. It's like I want something, but I can't put my finger on what it is. I am tired so very tired, but rest doesn't come, even if I "sleep" it seems as if my mind is still running and running.
>
I get this too. Although overall I sleep much better than when I was on Topamax with Effexor.> 4. Now this one sounds crazy and it is hard to explain and the title we have put on it is birds in my head. I get a sensation in my head that feels like one of the following
>
> a.) An electric shock without the pain
> b.) A flash buld without the light
> c.) The rush of a birds wing [ergo our pet name]
>
> When this comes I have to lay down or I get sick to my stomach.
>
Don't know about this one.
> The question is how much is from the meds and how much is from the disease, hard to tell I have been on meds so long I have a hard time telling one from the other.
>
> I was on Prozac and it worked for a very long time, then one day it quit and I went into a very deep depression and we have been playing with meds ever since and I haven't felt right in such a very long time. I thing the Prozac gave me a hypo manic sensation and I really liked being there, kinda happy-go-lucky with no cares... I wish I could have those days back again.
>
I hear you, boy, do I hear you.
> So if any of you are still out there please let me know, I would like to know how these meds work on a longer scale of usage.
>Good Luck.
> Thanks.
Posted by Cece on May 29, 2002, at 13:52:31
In reply to Re: Topamax and weight and sleep and mood, posted by MountainAngel on May 28, 2002, at 14:33:53
I am BPII, with a long history of chronic depression.
I loved the weight loss effect of topomax and needed it.
But after a few months it turned against me- I got unliveable cognitive problems, especially word finding and not being able to speak sentences in the right order. I was very sorry to have to stop, but it hadn't done much for me as a mood stabilizer anyway.The first drug I took was Depakote- 1000mg/day. It helped me but slogged me down. Over time I have worked my dose down to 250mg/day which gives me the good effect without the grog.
In addition to the Depakote, what finally, after many many trials has really helped me with mood stability and sleep is Neurontin 900mg/day (spread into 3 doses, with an occasional extra 100-200 if I start to get hyper and frantic or can't sleep), Lamictal 300mg/day (in the morning), and trimipramine (TCA) 25 mg/day (at night).
I've also recently added thyroid supplement which is helping a lot with mental alertness and getting up in the morning. I was only borderline low when I began and we are pushing me to the upper limits of the normal range. It is not making me hyper. My pdoc told me that thyroid disorder can mimic any and all psychiatric disorders, and some docs use it as the first drug successfully (Peter Whybrow at UCLA is a leader in this)- even in people who do not show thyroid deficiency in testing.
Hang in there- it can take many trials to find what's right for you and many of us have had the 'guinea pig blues'- but it's worth it. Of course, make sure you have a smart, up-to-date pdoc who you trust to be on your side.
Best,
Cece
Posted by bobbyy on June 2, 2002, at 3:55:21
In reply to Re: Topamax and weight and sleep and mood » MountainAngel, posted by Cece on May 29, 2002, at 13:52:31
I have been on topamax for over two months and am bipolar II
and also suffered from chronic depression most of
my life..within four days that oppression/depression
lifted...so far I haven't had any adverse reactions
everytime I can't think of a word..which is rare
I wonder..yes I am in my late fifties..
I am also on risperdal,paxil and klonopin for anxiety
I am a rapid cycler and lithium just got me fatter
and took away the hypomania and made me more depressed
re weight loss..the first two weeks I lost weight..
wonder if that was partially due to getting off lithium-
also noticed I no longer craved sugar..also no longer
craved potato chips or foods with fat..except for
half in half in coffee..craved more coffee..
I am on 100 ...I have read that those who lost weight
were on higher dosage..closer to 183
Posted by Stephen W on January 21, 2003, at 1:35:54
In reply to Re: Topamax and weight and sleep and mood, posted by Cam W. on July 3, 2000, at 11:12:22
I was diagnosed bi-polar about 6 months ago and was placed on depakote... after a few months of yo-yo-ing levels and finding that I just did not respond well to it, I stopped taking it and cycled into an extreme manic episode... this led me to an almost exaggerated "stereotype" and my family wanted me out of the house... SOOO... I went back to my psychiatrist, and said HELP!!... She told me that not only would topamax help with my bi-polar symptoms (because it helps with high re-cycling rates), but also because it helps you loose weight, and I'm 260 and only 20 y.o...
My question is how much weight can I expect to loose, and how quickly? I started taking 50mg in the morning and 50mg at night last week, and am already noticing a decrease in appetite... although, I'm not conciously avoiding food, I am not finding myself hungry... like usual... (if that makes sense). Is this normal? Do any of you suggest specific types of diets to coincide use with topamax?
Peace, Love, and Happiness (except for bin laden),
Stephen W.
Posted by Ritch on January 21, 2003, at 9:18:03
In reply to Topamax; controlling bi-polar and loosing lbs. , posted by Stephen W on January 21, 2003, at 1:35:54
> I was diagnosed bi-polar about 6 months ago and was placed on depakote... after a few months of yo-yo-ing levels and finding that I just did not respond well to it, I stopped taking it and cycled into an extreme manic episode... this led me to an almost exaggerated "stereotype" and my family wanted me out of the house... SOOO... I went back to my psychiatrist, and said HELP!!... She told me that not only would topamax help with my bi-polar symptoms (because it helps with high re-cycling rates), but also because it helps you loose weight, and I'm 260 and only 20 y.o...
>
> My question is how much weight can I expect to loose, and how quickly? I started taking 50mg in the morning and 50mg at night last week, and am already noticing a decrease in appetite... although, I'm not conciously avoiding food, I am not finding myself hungry... like usual... (if that makes sense). Is this normal? Do any of you suggest specific types of diets to coincide use with topamax?
>
> Peace, Love, and Happiness (except for bin laden),
> Stephen W.
Hi, I'm not on Topamax, but the most recent post I read about dosing to yield some weight loss mentioned 50-100mg as a "threshold" level for it to start ocurring. If you are already noticing an appetite reduction you probably will be seeing the results of that fairly soon. As with any med it will take a few weeks to notice it. Hope somebody else chimes in with some weight loss stories on Topamax for you. good luck!
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