Answer/Reply:

I don't understand why they won't help you. When I got degenerative arthritis I couldn't work anymore. I went to the FIA for medicaid, food stamps, and financial help. They did give it to me under the conditions I applied for SSI and would have to repay the state. Took less than six months, I guess I'm one of the lucky ones, to get approved. Since then I've had my neck fused, still in chronic pain, lower back might need surgery, on and on and on. You grow a tolerance to your pain medications and usually when that happens they look at surgery or different meds. I'm still in constant chronic pain, pills only make it somewhat tolerable. I've discovered that if you don't stand up to your doctors, after all they are getting paid, that they will brush you off. It took awhile for me to get methadone & vicodin but it's not the cure. This has been going on since 1989 and I've been on every narcotic you can name. I have been going to a pain clinic now for over 4 years and they never did anymore tests. Just injections and pain killers. This month I told them I want to go for another MRI, you would think that they would do that periodically knowing your arthritis is degenerative. You need to keep standing up for yourself and don't let them make you feel like your a hypochantriac or drug seeker. Seek different doctors. Do something, you are way to young to be in this shape, and it scares me to think of all the different meds you take. Are all your doctors aware of all your scripts. I'm 57 year old female and believe it pretty much ruined my life along with relationships that didn't understand chronic pain.

Good luck little girl, I'm praying for you right now.

58 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-16 21:10:26

Answer/Reply:

It is so eerie, our stories are just about the same, I did not have my only son until I was almost 30, then my health issues slammed hard, I went from doctor to doctor before I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, Bi-polar was just hitting the presses so not much was known, I did get my disability based on the Fibro, bi-polar, heart and a few other abbreviated conditions, lol, I suggest you get all the meds you are prescribed evaluated, there are some dangerous combinations in your list, and an accidental o.d. is sitting in your medicine cabinet, and just by taking two of these together can suppress your breathing while you sleep and you just never wake up, so be careful.

Not to add another to your list of doctors, but have you seen a Rheumatologist, who can diagnose whether you have fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue, I also would suggest looking in to it and get a pain management doctor to manage your pain, and medications, they are better qualified in giving you the meds to take care of the pain and other ways to treat it.

Accepting the fact that you will probably never work again is the hardest thing, I worked 90 hours a week a year before I got my disability, but who is going to hire a person who never knows until they wake up if they are not able to get out of bed that day or not!!

Good Luck I was where you are and though the fight never ends, at least you have a name for your pain, and can start to rebuild life around your pain. My quote is "I will not die young, I will just be old the rest of my life!!!"

42 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-17 23:22:23

Answer/Reply:

Fibromyalgia, nonalcohalicstetohepetitis which turned into 2nd stage cirrohsis of liver. Migraine headaches, carpal tunnel, two total knee replacements, back surgery, both heel cords snapped into have pins holding together. Rotatorcuff surgery and collar bone needed to be shaved off. Now bipolar disorder. Was denied disability. No wonder I'm manic depressive! I am now on Geodon and Sertraline(zoloft). Have any of you ladies experienced a rise in your libido? Mine has gone off the scale and was uncontrollable until I was put on geodon and zoloft. Plus a basket full of other drugs for the rest of what all is wrong with me. I work full time as a administrative director and it can be difficult with the highs and lows. My husband thinks I have multiple personality for heaven sakes. Says he never knows who's going to come through the door in the evenig. lol It's the mood swings, but you can't convience him of that. It is very difficult to deal with.

60 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-02 00:33:52

Answer/Reply:

I am a 44 yr old female. I had gastric bypass back in 1991 when it was a full scar from belly button to breast bone and 4 rows of industrial size staples. I weighed 287 lbs the day of my surgery. 9 months later I weighed 97 lbs and was hospilized for excessive weight loss. I currently weigh 115 lbs and I am 5'5". I was diagnosed with bulemia/anorexia nervosa. I am supposed to take vitamin b12 shots and calcium supplements for the rest of my life (neither of which I'm really regular abour). I was diagnosed with bi-polar with pyscosis 10 yrs ago in 1997. I also suffer from severe anxiety and OCD. I also suffer from bouts of agoraphobia. I was diagnosed with peripheral vascular disease in my legs which causes severe pain, around 8 years ago. I also have migraines. I was diagnosed back in '93 with asthma and in 2005 with chronic bronchitis and emphysema. I take Lemictal, Resperidal, Morphine 15 mg immediate release and 30 mg extended release, Vesteril, Lexapro, Propanolol, Fioicet, albuterol, and Advair. I think that about does it for the medications. I also go to pain management, have a family practice doctor and pyschiatrist. I no longer go to a gastroenterologist. But I did for many years after my gastric bypass. I had many many problems after that surgery. Those problems subsided but didn't disappear. I applied of SS/Disability in Dec of 2005 and started receiving benefits in May of 2006. I have a daughter who is 7 yrs old but does not live with me due to my illnesses. Therefore I receive no benefits for her. She lives with my dad and his wife. She has severe ADHD and anger issues for which she is being medicated because of my mental illnesses. Keep working for your benefits. I had no problem getting mine for the bi-polar with psycosis. I had to take a number of psycological tests. I answered completely truthfully. Shortly aftewards I was approved for benefits. As of May 1 2009 I will start receiving Medicare. I had to go without any medical coverage from Aug of 2008 until May 2009. Before that I qualified for Medicaid. But those benefits ran out. I hope some of this information has helped you to know you are not the only one out there with these problems. My health was never great, but it went downhill fast after gastric bypass surgery. A year after my daughter was born I had to have an emergency total abdominal hysterectomy. I've recently had my gall bladder removed. Watch out for that....losing your gall bladder is common after gastric bypass. I am constantly anemic. I have had 3 blood transfusions. I know if I took my b12 shots more regularly I probably wouldn't get anemic as often. I developed breathing problems due to smoking but I quit smoking 1 yr 1/2 ago. I eat lots of fruits and vegetables and take all my meds as directed. I just wanted you to know you are not the only one out there. You can't work while you're trying to get your benefits. The logic being if you can work then you don't need to be on disability. However you have to do it; do it. Just don't work. Good luck to you and your son.

45 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-20 14:37:05

Answer/Reply:

I take the lower dose of Symbyax and would rather deal with the weight gain. I have tried several and none have worked ad well as Symbyax.

46 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-20 18:22:19

Answer/Reply:

OMG I have all those disorders and had my neck fused in October, had left shoulder surgery and need left elbow surgery, from all that retail work, I am 47 and been on ssd since 1999, for mental health starting with SEVERE PANIC DISORDER, then everything followed. the physical is horrible too because now I can't even work part time, at least when I was working pt I could still keep my ssd check, but not the little bit i got from ssi. so weird, what is worse is society looks at me like I am able to work, because I don't look deformed, my depression may be on the inside but it still hurts, my neck shoulder elbow headaches stomach pain hurts too and you can't see that either, just because i don't use a wheel chair does not mean i'm not disabled.

47 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-22 17:21:33

Answer/Reply:

I am bipolar and arthritis and all that stuff and got social security get a lawyer that doesn't get anything untill you are approved thats what I did they know more of the ins and outs of the disablity crap just hang in there it take a while to get. anything worth it is easy to get. keep your chin up. liz

31 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-24 02:20:08

Answer/Reply:

i also have bi-polar, anxiety disorder,adhd,social anxiety,carpal tunnel,back pain,muscle spasms and 5 wks ago,i had a partial hysterectomy and i am only 34. i take abilify,vyvanse,klonopin,celexa,nexium for my ulcers,zantac for acid reflux,soma,lortab,glucosimine chondotrine and fish oil. i applied for my disability november 2007 and was turned down so now i have an attorney. they told me that i had the ability to be a cashier. wow! i guess they had to say something! i have worked hard all of my life until july 2007 and i understand how you feel. my attorney told me that social security would probably turn me down again and then it would take up to 18 months to get a hearing! i have had to get on government assistance and can no longer live by myself. i really don't have any advice for you but good luck and keep fighting. i know i am. we are too young for this!

35 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-24 16:57:50

Answer/Reply:

i can totally relate to you. i am 34 and am also fighting social security for my disability. but they seem to think that i can work as a cashier. wow! i applied november2007 and have been turned down but i got an attorney but he said it would take up to 18 months to get a hearing. anyway, heres whats going on with me: bi-polar, adhd, social anxiety, back and neck pain with muscle spasms, gerd, ulcers and depression. i take abilify,vyvanse,klonopin,celexa,nexium,zantac,lortab,soma,glucosamine chondotrine and fish oil daily.i have not been able to work for 2 yrs. and i have 2 sons ages 17 and 12 and have had to be on government assistance all this time so all i can tell you is good luck and don't give up on your disability. i'm not. i think i may have fibromyalgia but have talked to my dr. about it but i hurt everywhere everyday! and the lortab and soma only helps for a while. if you have any info on that will you please let me know?!?

35 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-24 17:21:25

Answer/Reply:

I have had everything you have described plus some (except the bypass) I am allergic to lortab, so unlucky for me but it makes my family grouchy so it might be lucky after all. I take 2 40 mg flexarill at night, they help. The only pain pills I can take are Darvon,, 3x/day. I also take 4 mg of Clonopin for nerves 1am 1noon 2night, it works ok...still have some issues sometimes. Take protonix for my reflux. Take beano before each meal and lactaid pills if I eat dairy...really helps a lot. Dr prescribed syntext or something like that for stomach spasms to help w/the severe IBS cramps...just put a couple on the tongue to dissolve and presto it works. the colestid was bad for me and i thought it was pulled but i guess i was wrong if your dr is still prescribing it mobic did nothing for me, keep up with the calcium...i didn't and fell and broke my elbow...39 and had never broken a bone til 4 months before 40. easy thing to do is the minute maid kids added vitamin OJuice. Abilify causes weight gain and high blood sugar. My husband had a nervous breakdown last year and they had him on that and he has gained 40 lbs and is now a diabetic...on meds (pills). Cymbalta didn't work for me either. the best thing that has worked for me has been trileptal and topamax with the clonopin for the BP, protonix for the IBS, and darvon and flexaril for the pain for my fibromyalgia, which is what you probably have if you hurt in all your joints!!!!!!!!!
I wish you the best of luck!

41 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-27 04:12:02

Answer/Reply:

It was my experience that less meds can be better. I was taking about 10 different meds for bipolar and depression and seizures. Then I started having eye problems went to specalist and came off of half of the meds and most days are 9.5 out of 10!!! Some meds actually can cause more problems than benefits. Get all of your doctors on the same page and see if less is better or find some that can treat more than one condition.

43 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-06 18:57:30

Answer/Reply:

I also am on 100 mg of Lamictal plus trazadone 100mg to help me sleep at night (have insomnia and am bi-polar) I also am experiencing the fatigue and drowsiness. I was placed on Celexa to help but I still feel over sedated and am tired all the time. I am also on clonazepam and simvastatin for high cholesterol. I am a 39 year old female. If you find a solution please let me know, I hate taking so many meds everyday and am sick of being tired all the time.

39 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-04 10:31:14

Answer/Reply:

I take Clonazapam and Lamictal for Bipolar. I take my medication at night together. Try taking them earlier at night so you get more hours of sleep and you should be good in the morning. Clonazapam makes you tired so I only take 1/2 of .5 if something really stressful happens during the day. I was on Wellbutrin during th day but I felt spacey so now I just take 125mg of Lamicatal and .5 of Clonazapam. I am feeling pretty good.

47 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-18 15:47:24

Answer/Reply:

I am unsure why you would be tired taking 100 mg of Lamictal, I take 300 mg of Lamictal at night and I feel fabulous in the morning. I am sure you are thinking "WOW that is alot", but I suffered from a lot of stress in my life and if anything, I am iritable a lot. I was also on 150 mg of Effexor XR for depression which my doctor and I realized I didn't suffer from. NOTE: For those trying to get off the drug Effexor, do it gradually so the symtoms are lessoned. I empty the capsule of tiny pills and take about a pinch now and have the side affects almost gone.

Anyways, to all of us who need medication for whatever condition we have, make sure your doctor TRULY isn't all about more drug sales and not helping you with feeling better.

I wish you well and more alert. (remember coffee has a quick energy and a quick decrease)

45 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-04 11:13:53

Answer/Reply:

I have schizoaffective disorder, major depression, & ocd. I tke Rozerem, Remeron, Lamictal, Paxil, Geodon, Topamax, Valium,Lithium, Pristiq. I am also on Lortab 10-5 per day & Soma, 350-2 a day. My condition has not improved. I can function, but am always depressed with anxiety.I don't "hear" things anymore, thanks to the Geodon. I take 3-80mg of that per day. The pain meds are for a back problem. Does anyone have this disorder? And have it under control? I was diagnosed 10 years ago. I have the manic symptoms of bi-polar also.

53 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-05 14:04:48

Answer/Reply:

my 17 year old daughter has schizoaffective disorder, OCD, Bipolar, Dysthmia and Avoidant Personality Disorder, Schizoid personality disorder, major depression, and panic and anxiety..Insomnia...Always has ailments.. Sometimes she seemed like satan. Throwing things, fighting, screaming and just completely psychotic...These results came from 2 psychologists and the school...which didn't believe the numbers on their school testing for her condition. they thought I was lying until they read the psycological evaluations.. She is on a home school program until insomnia subsides and medication starts working.She can't stand to be around people...very hard to obtain a relationship with anyone. Her doctor has called her "UNIQUE". and let me tell you she has been on 20 different medicine combinations. I finally told the doctor that I am at my wits end...so now he is seeing her more often and has put her on ABILIFY. I want to tell you that she is a completely different person...she is nice to talk to...I can hug her again...and she is doing her homework and cleaning and doing laundry....I am so excited and finally i can relax a bit. She isn't all the way there yet, but she is only on the lowest dose of the abilify...but will increase tomorrow...
She was taking all kinds of medications at once...it just seemed to make her symptoms worse and she was considered "UNIQUE" not only because of her mental illnesses but because she became immune to sleeping meds. Xanax, florazapam, trazadone..etc..within a day or two.
Hope this helps. Maybe Abilify will work for you...

42 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-15 14:25:26

Answer/Reply:

I have been on most of the meds you are taking now taking. I could not walk. I am bi-polar and manic depressive.Also have degenerative disc discease and arth. in back. Took soma for 10 years til relized I was having blackouts. Lortab after a extening period of time did the same thing.I now take effexor xr and nuertin,propanonol,plus some more. My son took Remeron Tomamax,Lithium, for the same condition. Getting off most the meds has helped us the both.If you are not better there are more doctors. Hope you get better soon!!

50 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-16 22:55:15

Answer/Reply:

I am bipolar and take several meds, too. My disorder doesn't really match the complexity of yours, but I do have some recommendations. Your drug mix seems pretty potent. Since you are still depressed, seek a second, or even third opinion. Make sure ALL your doctors know ALL that you are taking, because there may be something affecting the psychiatric drugs.

In any case, your meds aren't sufficiently cutting it. If you admit yourself to a hospital with a good psych ward, you would receive regular daily attention in adjusting your meds, plus support for the return of symptoms, as they gradually pare down and adjust the drugs. It may take awhile, to get the right mix, but the results should be worth it.

47 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-23 19:13:30

Answer/Reply:

Hi that seems like an awful lot of meds to be on for your disorder. I have schizoaffective disorder/Bipolar/ and personality disorder. I am only on three meds and they seem to work for me sometimes being on too much medication can compromise us. I have recently been taken off seroquel and put on abilify, along with depakote, and cymbalta. If this is bothering you talk with your pyschiatrist and let them know how you are feeling because sometimes too much meds can have an adverse reaction on our condition. I was on lithium, depakote, and many others before what I call finding the right combo to work for you. You know yourself better then anyone and if you feel something is not right let them know it is the Dr.'s job to get it right. Also read up on your conditions to help you better understand what you are dealing with and how to manage it better. There are many websites out their that are full of info for this. Also ask your dr. for any info he/she may have that they can give you.
I wish you the best in finding the right combo for your situation no two bipolars or schizoaffectives are alike.

47 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-26 17:29:40

Answer/Reply:

I have bipolar disorder and anxiety disorder. I take Lorazepam for the anxiety 1-2. 1mg tablets daily as needed but i use both for sleep at night.

I take lamicatal and Geodon for the bipolar disorder. i used to be on a ton of meds too but slowly weaned myself off of them as I felt I was overmedicated. Since doing so I have never felt better in my life. Of course it has only been three weeks but still its the best i have had in almost a year on all the other meds. Sometimes less is more.

53 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-04 15:46:39

Answer/Reply:

I think I would still be having problems especially with the depressive side because of the effects of your meds. Please have another doctor go over ALL your medications and check for interactions, etc. Do you get all your meds filled at one pharmacy? That can be a big help because (hopefully) they will catch the interactions the Dr. misses.

I just did a medication checker at epocrates and it's a wonder you haven't landed in the hospital or worse because of the additive effects of these meds. It happened to me, I was on 24 different meds. It never hurts to really have your meds gone over by a good Dr. I had my list chopped way down and feel much better.



Paxil <-> Pristiq
Avoid/Use Alternative Med. This combo along with a least 5 others in your listed meds increase your risk of serotionin syndrome, neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

14 combo's of your meds have the warning:
caution advised: combo may incr. risk of CNS depression, psychomotor impairment (additive effects)

Lithium <-> Topamax
caution with Topamax doses > 200 mg a day. Combo may decrease lithium levels

Lortab 10/500 <-> Paxil
caution advised: combo may decr. hydrocodone efficacy (hepatic metab. inhibited, decr. conversion to active metabolite)

49 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-06 03:24:03

Answer/Reply:

There was a time when I took quite the extensive cocktail also. Then, during a hospital stay, I saw a new doctor who expressed horror at the quantity and potential interactions of what I was taking. She pulled me off ALL my meds, and slowly put me on less variety and lower dosages. It didn't take long for me to function much better with a lot less drowsiness. Moral? Get yourself more than one opinion and make yourself educated re: what you take. The internet is a wonderful source of information.

55 year old Female

Posted: 2009-09-11 18:19:54

Answer/Reply:

keep taking the 100mg of lamicatal and consider adding in an SSRI at a small dose. A drug like celexa, cymbalta, or effexor might do the trick, usually without as much of a drowsy-ing affect.

26 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-05 17:20:12

Answer/Reply:

Be careful, Steven Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis Syndrome is associated with Lamictal. It is life threatening.

( http://www.sjsupport.org/fact.shtml )

My son was showing signs of SJS/TEN and had to be taken off immediately. Started out with rash under his arms, doctor kept saying to let them know if ANY rash developed, didn't say why. He has quite a cocktail of meds but this is the only one I was warned about and a rash did develop... It wasn't till after it was discontinued that I heard about SJS. He is now taking Risperdal in the AM & PM without incident.

49 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-06 01:14:30

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Hi, i just stopped taking lamictal at for Bipolar after almost a year at 200mg, my depression got worse as the dose increased to the point of not getting out of bed or taking a bath. I just went in and told her that I wasn't gong to take it anymore, she agreed after seeing me. Just don't be afraid to tell your doc it's not working, know that what works for some doesn't for all.hope it helps. God Bless You

Posted: 2009-03-06 01:21:35

Answer/Reply:

I take 200 mg of Lamictal in the mornings, and it works fairly well for me. I'm doing much better, even though I still have some mild depression. I was always very fatigued when I was going up in doses, but after a few weeks at the final (200 mg) dose it went away. How long have you tried the 125 mg?

Also, my doctor added Wellbutrin to my Lamictal because the massive doses of Paxil my general practitioner did nothing for the tiredness that came along with the depression. Some people with Bipolar become manic when on just an anti-depressant (I did,) but it can help when you use it with a mood-stabilizer.

20 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-23 16:10:22

Answer/Reply:

you could try a different medicine, it takes a while to find what works best for you. sound like you might just be going thru the side effects you have when first upping a dose or starting a new medicine, you have to get thru them, takes up to 3 or 4 weeks sometimes for them to go away. i swear by prozac but everyone is different and it can make some people suicidal, hasn't me any worse than usual but that's what i've read. usually bipolar disorder is treated with an antipsychotic like abilify, and an antidepressant, as well as a mood stableizer i think like depakote or topamax but not sure, then if you have anxiety, also a benzodiazipine from adavan to xanax. but bipolar disorder is at least treated with the antipsychotic and antidepressant because of the mania and depression. i don't understand just being on one medicine. but if you get thru your 3 or 4 weeks of fatigue and drowsiness and they don't go away tell your psychiatrist, it might be time to try something else.

38 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-28 14:52:26

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I took effexor xl also for 10 years but I'm not now.It works your parents don't know how take the new you.I bet when they think you ar moody you actually picking.You need let them know.

Posted: 2009-03-01 01:02:06

Answer/Reply:

I take Wellbutrin XL and Effexor XR since 2001 now. It works well for me. Every once in a while I have mood problems. It isn't like you will never have mood changes again. You cannot be even all the time. Just like normal people they have up and down days. Our medication is to help us from having those bottoming out moods. Where you are extreme one way or the other.

I also take Klonapin or generic is Clonazepam. This is an anti-anxiety. I used to take it three times a day. Now I take it maybe once a day. Sometimes I don't even take it. If I am having a bad day. Or if something stressful happens My hubby will say today is a Klonapin day or a two Klonapin if he knows I have already taken one.

I am 55 yrs and have been bipolar for my whole life. No one knew what it was when I was a child and told my folks I was or had a lot of different things. I am very thankful for today's doctors who know now. My parents were even told I was retarded when I was in second grade.

If you want to chat some time please email me again.

Cindy

56 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-05 14:46:11

Answer/Reply:

Hey Cindy! I'm Sherry, I'm 60 and bi-polar...along with depression. I'm currently taking Trazadone, Neurotin, Baclofen....along with blood pressure. I had been living alone and enjoying it... my older daughter and 2 of her daughters moved in about 3 months ago as they have no where else to stay. She is unemployed and we have a long history of 'a poor relationship'!!!?! So far, things are OK, my younger (32) lives in L.A. and I really miss her. It is hard for me to realize I have to take meds to be "normal".... but I suppose that is just how it is. I've taken TONS of different meds in the past, like you, it has been a life-long thing. Also, I am a recovering alcoholic and had a relapse when my daughter moved in...just the stress, etc. I am hoping this time the sobriety will "take"! but, I understand alcoholics have an average of 7-8 relapses.....maybe I can beat the odds!?!! Write me anytime..... I enjoyed your comments.

61 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-27 17:24:24

Answer/Reply:

If u are feeling great that is what matters. I think parents think they are all moody sometimes, just like we think they are sometimes. I wouldn't worry too much about it. Just share you view and listen to their side and decide to move on. Good luck.

26 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-05 17:18:39

Answer/Reply:

I am on effexor and nuerotin. My family says I have very moody which I did not see. Also depression also goes in remission. I with my doctor help is coming off effexor xr. I turned cold turkey be PLEASE do not try it!This medicine s very dangerous please read up on it!!!!!!! Iam 48 years old and have had bi-polar and tramic stress symdrone which I was hospitalize for 31 days Understanding what you have and how to cope is the best meds.

50 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-16 23:07:49

Answer/Reply:

I don't know about the combination causing moodiness, however, when I was on risperidal, I gained 70 pounds, so you will want to watch your weight. Weight gain is unavoidable on thi medication, but, excess will no doubt increase your depression.

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-17 20:27:12

Answer/Reply:

First I just want to say that I love my parents more than words can say. But...always a but it seems. I'm 41 years old and since I can remember no matter what medication(s) I was put on never seemed to satisfy my parents. Even to this very day they feel I'm still moody. Though no one else in my life does (or has since my latest meds prescribed), including my doctor. I guess what I'm saying is if you feel it's helping as well as your doctor give a little more time. I waisted 20 plus years trying to make my parents happy. Sadly in doing so, by switching meds in hopes for them to see a difference once too many times caused me my marriage. There's always the chance meds can make your condition worse. In my case it did one time, and that's all it took to lose everything I loved in my life, except my parents. You're parents will love you reguardless if you're moody or not. I'n no expert. I have to wonder if I was given this type of advice if I'd be lonely inside. I just wish I wouldn't of tried to be a "perfect" daughter in turn to lose the love of my life. Listen to your heart as well as your doctor. Best wishes KSJ Ohio

42 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-19 10:54:56

Answer/Reply:

WHEN MY FAMILY SAYS THINGS LIKE THAT TO ME i SAY WELL COME ON LETS GO TALK WITH MY DOCTORS TELL HIM YOUR SIDE OF THINGS AND BE OPEN TO HEAR WHAT HE HAS TO SAY BACK REGARDING MY TREATMENT IF THE DOCTOR SAYS I AM OK THEN JUST LEAVE IT AT THAT. I OFTEN RUN IN TO TIMES LIKE THAT ITS LIKE RIGHT NOW I AM GETTING THROUGH AN EPISODE OF MY OWN I HAVE LOCKED MYSELF UP TOWARDS THE OUTSIDE WORLD FOR THE LAST 2 MONTHS I HAVE BECOME A HERMIT WONT TAKE CALLS DONT GO ANYWHERE BUT YET I SEEM TO FUNCTION IN MY OWN LITTLE WORLD.

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-24 08:10:33

Answer/Reply:

sometimes others can see things we cannot. I know that people have told me I did things I had no idea I was doing. With Bipolar sometimes we cannot be the best judge of our own actions and must really on what others tell us we are doing, I know you probibly didn't expect to hear this answer and it may make you a little ticked off but it's true. It's like somehow we blockout some of our emotions or want to be a certain way so we belive we are. Your parents love you and only want the best for you and that is to try to get you better. Why don't you have your parents come with you to the P-docs office next visit and go over this difference of opinions, that way the doc can see if they are telling the truth about you or really overreacting as you say, that would be the best option.

Nemo

37 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-26 16:39:03

Answer/Reply:

I AM THE MOTHER OF A 20 YEAR OLD FEMALE, WITH BI POLAR, DEPRESSION AND AN EATING DISORDER. SHE IS NOW TAKING ABILIFY, AND COMING OFF OF LEXAPRO AND STRATARA, DUE TO THE FACT THAT SHE WAS JUST DIAGNOSED WITH BI POLAR.

YOU ARE 20 YEARS OLD, AND "NORMAL" PEOPLE ARE SOMETIMES OVERLY MOODY. YOUR PARENTS MIGHT JUST BE HYPER SENSITIVE TO YOUR MOODS BECAUSE THEY ARE TRYING TO TRACK YOUR SYMPTOMS. THEY JUST WANT TO MAKE SURE THAT YOUR MEDS ARE WORKING. AND BY COMMENTING ON YOUR MOODS ARE TRYING TO MAKE YOU AWARE OF ANY CHANGES THAT THEY SEE. THIS WAY IF AJUSTMENTS NEED TO BE MADE TO YOUR MEDS. IT IS SOONER RATHER THAN LATER. JUST REASSURE THEM THAT YOU FELL FINE, BUT THAT YOU NEED A LITTLE ROOM TO HAVE NORMAL EMOTIONS. AND THANK THEM FOR LOOKING OUT FOR YOU. PARENTS LOVE THAT CRAP!

20 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-08 01:45:48

Answer/Reply:

It sounds like your Drs. are trying to treat your pain with psyc drugs. If you took one good pain narcotic you could drop 5 of those medications. I am 52 and suffer from Bi-Polar and PTSD and numerous pain issues. I now take only 2 psyc drugs and 2 pain meds. It took me 14 years to get the formula right. I have now been on the same drug schedule for 9 years.

53 year old Male

Posted: 2009-02-18 19:52:28

Answer/Reply:

Wow Skelaxin and Soma, and ambien that is enough to make you walk in a fog for days with just one dose. maybe you should consult with another Dr. I so not know how you function at all. I know that zombie like feeling and it is a scary place to be. I had an adjustment in my meds and it made me a new person. I to have had a few surgeries and am bipolar.

47 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-04 08:45:59

Answer/Reply:

Wow! And I've been feeling bad about all my drugs, which are also ridiculous. But, the thing that scares me most about your situation, for me, is I think I'm going to have to have back surgery myself very soon...how much worse will the medication situation get then??? I am almost 40 myself, so your story scares me more than a little. I hope you find some relief and/or solution to your 19 pill a day problem. I wish I knew something to say to make you, at least, feel better about it....sorry.

39 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-04 21:19:29

Answer/Reply:

you are taking some meds that are used to treat the same things, such as neurontin and trileptal. Cymbalta and remeron are also similar. Soma andd ambien are also similar, both used in treating insomnia. I think one pain med, one sleeping med, one med for depression, and one mood stabilizer would be adequate. If you doctors don't listen to you, get new ones. I used to be on about the same number of meds as you and worked on getting myself down to what I recommended for you. It is possible, I too, hate walking around like a zombie. Good luck !

26 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-05 17:13:45

Answer/Reply:

i too have about that many not just for manic depression ,but everyone's system,condition ,matabolism is soo different when it comes to psch drugs . You are ,seems to me ,on alot of manic depression meds , i am no doctor so its just opinion. I take cymbalta,trileptal,colodopin(xanax) but.. i also have a herneated disc both in neck an back .i have no thyroid so i am on 175mg of synthroid ,i take ultram,some vicodan,i have astma,so all breathing stuff ,crestor .
had open heart in 1967 which gave me a bad blood trans ,sooo took chemo of Peg-interferon for 2 yrs on top of all that --i was diagnosed Bipolar in 1982 --29shrinks,49 diff meds and 42 counslers later and i am ( i guess ok)) living ..lolo an so far clear of cancer
You should know your cycle by now , when your more depressed or maybe manic -i run april and then again around nov-dec
i also have come to the realize the 'The pain is enivitable,its the suffern thats optional --so alot of what i have learned is all in your attitude each day ..i pray you find your right combo .it sure can be hectic and really over whelming ..God Bless an smile--Your in the company of alot of favorites--Paty Duke ,jothan winters ,red skelton,robin williams - We are the craziest sane people you will ever meet --BET
woman- 49 and will be 50 in april-ohio

50 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-06 09:33:25

Answer/Reply:

I also am Bipolar and have PTSD, as well as Fibromyalgia, CFS, Asthma, RA and several other medical issues. I too was always in constant pain and miserable until my doctors (psychologist & RA doctor) got together to figure out a better solution for me; I was on to many meds too and I refused to take any more. After I was put on 50 mg Topamax, 60 mg Cymbalta and 250 mg Wellbutrin in the morning and another 150 mg Wellbutrin at lunch and then 100 mg Topamax at bed time I have been doing so much better. At the beginning (first 2 weeks) we had to play with the Topamax dosage to get it right to get me off the zombie stage. Also I wasn't on that high of a dose of Wellbutrin either; most people take a lower dose starting out. Since I had been on Wellbutrin before for several years, my body was well accustomed to it and a lower dose didn't work for me. I hope they will find the right combination of drugs for you as well. It took me many years to get it right;don't give up!

51 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-22 22:56:21

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

hii im 40 years old and bi polar no one understands i can relate to that i am going through alot in my life fighting for my freedom #1 bills incme abusive boyfriend im here to talk dont worry about me throughing everything on you im all good ive been on medication going on ten 10 years so maybe i can help you to cope and deal with life a little bit easier and with alot more happiness in it at least give you a peace of mind within yourself about yourself and hey we are stuck living with us right haha accepting ourselves for who we are and the way we are is the first thing to happiness within and that peace of mind we may have never had before my name is laura mary and im bi polar and i live my life just fine just the waY I AM WRITE ME AT laurareyna700@yahoo.com looking forward to talking to anoth bi polar unique indiviidual in this world

Posted: 2009-01-21 16:26:56

Answer/Reply:

I AM BIPOLAR AND HAVE ANXIETY AND PANIC ATTACKS PLUS AM A DIABETIC WITH SEVER ITCHING AND NERVE NUEROPOTHY AND WAS PUT ON PAXIL. I LOVE MY PAXIL I HAVE NOT HAD ANY MOOD SWINGS SINCE I HAVE BEEN ON IT. I USE TO FLY OFF THE HANDLE FOR NO REASON NOW I FEEL HAPPIER AND MY FAMILY IS HAPPIER. IT HAS EVEN HELPED WITH THE NERVE PAIN IN MY FEET. HOPE THIS HELPS.

43 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-12 21:09:29

Answer/Reply:

I have found sucess with Geodon and Trazadone togther ! But before i was taking the trazadone, i was just on the geodon by its self and that greatly improved my moodswings ! I really do feel like a whole new person ! The little things i used to stress over dont even bother me anymore and everyone agrees i am much easier to get along with now ! I feel so much more relaxed and worry free, its great ! I was scared about being put on these kinds of medications too, at first ! But now i dont know how i ever lived with out them ! Good luck to you !

25 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-21 13:55:53

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I am 35 female and I also was on the Geodon and Trazadone together. I too was alot happier with these medications. I have been diagnosed with manic bipolar and a sleeping disorder because my mind doesn't shut down. I constantly have racing thoughts. I had to be taken off the Geodon after 2 months because I had issue with not being able to have an orgasm even when I tried real hard. It got frustrating after about a month. I talked to my doctor and a salesman for Geodon and they both said it is a side effect of the medication Geodon but that only 35% of woman develop this side effect. So good luck..I am now on Trazadone for my sleeplessness and Lithium for my bipolar. I love them and am doing better than ever. I've been put on about every pill out there. The two your taking worked very well for me til I got a side effect to Good Luck...

Posted: 2009-02-10 16:36:17

Answer/Reply:

im on effexor and depakote,
1 1/2 years ago i went on the effexor for depression & anxiety (bipolar & onset of menopause) it really helped for nearly a year - then the mania kicked back in (and the crash and burn got to me) My Dr. then placed me also on depakote & asked me to remove myself from high stress (avoidable situations, ie "talk radio" & "non supportive people) ............im doing quite well now.

51 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-18 16:15:17

Answer/Reply:

I have bipolar disorder and anxiety and take two separate medications: an anti-convulsant as a mood stabilizer and a benzodiazepam for my anxiety.

This seems to work well for me and I would not mess with my formulation for anything in the world. I've tried natural and it doesn't work for me.

In my opinion, me being on psych meds for life is no different than a diabetic taking insulin for life.

42 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-21 21:10:22

Answer/Reply:

I agree with you. I didn't like taking all the meds either. But now I take prozac, wellburtrin XL, and Trazadone for my bi-polar and panic attacks. It has taking me 20 year to come to the reality that I have to take these medicines for the rest of my life, if I want to be normal. I tried the natural way several times and it never worked, instead it made thing worse. Like me you just have to keep trying different meds until you find what works for you; no one is the same so you can not expect what works for me will work for you. Please don't wait any longer to get your life back. It is great!!!

52 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-27 16:02:52

Answer/Reply:

I was on Seroquel and Lamictal for 4 years, although I have been bi-polar for as long as I can remember. It took 2 months, but I am proud to say I am medication free since Thanksgiving. I was also very sensitive to different meds and although they helped, my mood swings could change on a dime. I did not want to be dependant on anything for the rest of my life. Since stopping my meds (with the Dr's approval) I tried to identify the triggers, I excersize regulary and watch my diet. I still have good days and bad. My mood still swings wildly, but for the most part, I can pull my self out of a funk or relax my mind. The seroquel and the lamicatal was a crutch for me to lean on while I forced myself to focus and pay attention to myself. Just remember that bi-polar is not new and before these meds came out what did the people do? They dealt with it and that is what I intend to do. It is VERY helpful to have a support system. For example, my boyfriend has learned how to help me deal and what words to use to make me feel better.

27 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-02 11:14:47

Answer/Reply:

About 9 months ago I learned that the topomax I was taking was causing me to forget even the most basic thing-I forgot how to turn on the lights in my car. So I weaned off of it. Then, I went down on my seroquel, only taking 100mgs at night for sleep now. Then I weaned off geodon. I think it's been 3 months now, I'm doing OK, having a good therapist and understanding friends and loving husband. I like this.

55 year old Female

Posted: 2009-09-11 18:42:45

Answer/Reply:

Lithium is actually a salt, so it's somewhat natural even though you need a script for it. I haven't heard of any Health Food type natural things working longterm for Bipolar. Even meds don't work really good for me, I have to take 5 different meds to get somewhat stable and I still have major anxiety that I may need another med for, before these meds the other ones would work for awhile and then quit after a few months. Lithium has helped me quite a bit though.

Nemo

37 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-26 16:45:54

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

While Lithium is a colorless salt, it is still a chemical and not a natural material. There are a lot of options for the treatment of bipolar and generalized anxiety disorder. While there might not be 1 drug that is effective for both, it would be a good idea to discuss with your doctor about the available treatment options.

Posted: 2009-04-03 14:28:01

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

i also take resperdol,but i take mine at night so it helps with sleep.

Posted: 2009-01-07 18:51:42

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I am on the same medication with the same effects as you are experiencing. My doctors won't even allow me to drive. Do you take the medication at bedtime or in the daytime. I was taking it in the morning but found that it is better to taken about an hour before bedtime so that sleep is possible. The problem I find with this is that nothing wakes me up at night. My doctor is going to try me on Lithium and Lamictal to see how they work. Maybe you can see if you can swithch to one of these other medicines.

Posted: 2009-01-08 21:09:15

Answer/Reply:

Sorry to hear about that ! You should talk to your doctor to see if he could put you on something elce ! I am on geodon and trazadone and the trazadone helps me fall right to sleep at night and i also take the geodon at night so by the time i wake up in the morning i am preatty well rested ! Good luck to you ! I hope you figure something out !

25 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-21 14:04:18

Answer/Reply:

You are lucky! I have no drive at all in any fashion. It is devastating to a marriage even though there is known cause.

41 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-03 14:20:16

Answer/Reply:

Hi Its a small wonder your libido does not complete self destruct with all those drugs. I was on Wellbutrin ER, Klonopin, Cymbalta, and an anti-psychotic............I finally hit the donut hole and used up all my moneys for the meds in July...........basically found out now, I am on my Wellbutrin ER and Klonopin and that is it................and have a normal libidol, the first time in over 15 years (Talk about lost years)....................I wish you well, I would go to a Psychopharmacologist (he is the guy where the docs send patients who they cannot figure out how to get the meds right)............cost an arm but well worth it, I had one for a shirnk for over 8 years and I watched this guy almost raise the dead from mental health issues............

63 year old Male

Posted: 2008-12-03 15:38:51

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

also on effexor.valpro and seroquel , i have bi polor 1 with rather high sex drive, 25 male

just gota make sure partner is suitable and willing to go the extra mile if needed.You guys should discuss alot of this to your partners for what ever reason, so no one wastes time sitting around looking foolish.

Posted: 2009-01-06 10:39:37

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Be lucky you can take something all the drugs above gave me a reaction and no sex drive.

27 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-12 18:35:52

Answer/Reply:

I take Wellbutrin, Paxil, and Depakote and I have a insatiable desire for sex. I think about it all the time and just can't seem to get enough.



42 year old female

43 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-20 15:56:53

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Its the Wellbutrin. I was on effexor and had none then the doc put me on this and i couldn't get enough. but it calmed down a bit since then.

Posted: 2009-01-22 13:11:28

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Wow! You are the one who proves that different meds work differently for different people. We are not all the same. Thank the Lord for that. Can you imagine how boring the world would be?

Anyway you are so lucky to even have a sex drive. The only time I have one is if I am off all meds and in manic phase. Not going into that now.

I am on Wellbutrin XL 300mg, Effexor XR 300mg, Klonapin 1 to 3 times a day depends on the day. Seroquel made me have uncontrollable movements, like rocking and swiveling. I stopped that one.

Now the real question is are you upset with this extreme sex drive or are you enjoying yourself?

If you are upset then talk to your doctor and get one of those meds changed. For myself I wouldn't it has been too long without.

Good luck.

Cindy

Posted: 2009-03-05 15:20:51

Answer/Reply:

Get your hormones checked, this isnt'l necessarily a drug side effect. Many women in their forties get a surge in hormones causing increased libido. I went through it and didn't learn until after the fact that this is more common than people realize. Don't always blame the disorder or the meds.

55 year old Female

Posted: 2009-09-11 18:48:36

Answer/Reply:

There are different degrees of bipolar; just like there are different degrees of depression. I can sleep most of the time; as long as I am working or going to school. I bounce between work through a temporary agency and college while raising 6 kids. It is when I am inbetween work and college that my sleep disorder comes out more. While I am in school or at work; my mania is just not as severe as when I'm a stay at home mom. The same is true with the depression. Just because you did not get upset because your husband cheated on you does not mean you are bipolar. You may have know something was up subconsciously or you wanted things to change within your relationship to begin with and this was the situation you used to get that result. I have no problem dealing with coworkers or classmates. I have several friends that are bipolar and thier disease is much more severe than mine. (Which also makes it difficult to take my medication; but that problem seems to have worked it self out) Did you talk to the psychiatrist about situations and possible diagnosis? You can look at www.cdc.gov and look up bipolar. I like their website because I know it is definitely credible information. Hope this helps.

34 year old Female

Posted: 2008-11-08 21:08:30

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Sometimes doctors will say you are BP to get people to take meds. Read up on BP first then see another psych doc. It does not sound like you are BP. You just reacted the way any one would act with the things you were going through.

I am BP and have been all my life. I have been married 5 times. I just take off for days to do something that sounds like fun at the spur of the moment. I used to move to a different apartment every six months, because I was bored. I had such anger issues that once I followed a car all the way until he stopped his car and I pulled him out and punched him in the face a few times. All because he cut me off. This was when I was younger and I did not take meds. Of course I could write a book about the things I have put myself and my family through, not to mention friends. This is BP. Extreme BP, manic phase.

I also spent six months in my bedroom, sleeping and eating only Cheerios. I would not talk to anyone. I would not come out of my room except to use the bathroom. I slept 24/7. This is BP depression.

Do not feel bad for me. I finally found where I need to be and I am there. Plus my wonderful hubby helps me a bunch. I am very happy.

Both side of this is my extreme. Some BP never gets this extreme. I don't anymore because I have found the right combo of meds for me.

I do not think you are bipolar. Again read up on it. Google or search on line for Bipolar. Read it all if you can. You could also sit in on some bipolar blogs and read what is said about their everyday life. You could find out easy enough these days.

Good luck in your search.

Cindy

Posted: 2009-03-05 15:45:47

Answer/Reply:

I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder (manic depressive) when I was 28. The first time I hallucinated and thought I was God then I black out for one month. Medication in those days (about 30 years ago) was lithium I don't remember the name of the antidepressant which didn't work.I had several courses of electric shocks every time I was admitted in a mental hospital.When I am manic or "high" I spend money like they were just papers. I would buy anything I fancy which I had no use of at all when I came back to normal. My sex drive was incredible and I am a woman. My boy friend and had sex in the hospital (private) room and risk being seen by the nurses coming in and out all the time. I exhausted all kinds of medications I have treated by the most well known to be best psychiatrists in Thailand (where I live in Bangkok). but still, I had my severe highs and lows. every time when I get high I would really believe that I have super natural power - like being devine and very religious. I spent my life going in and out of mental institutions and some times I can be violent. I attempted suicide once but was saved by the doctors in a hospital near by my house. I mean, who would want to live when one feels so useless and worth nothing. So depressed that I plan suiside each day. The thing I'm afraid if is "what if I don't succeed?" would I become a vegetable? Can you imagine being a zombie? That's how I'd feel when I get depressed. Right now I am on Quomem, cymbalta, Depakote and Seroquel. This combination seems to work for now and I feel normal again. I also take Rivotril 2mg before bed and I sleep (like starting to spend a lot of money, giving things away, talkative and make jokes and laugh a lot, very clever and cunning so on) well every night. Anyhow, I still have to watch out for my early symptoms of a manic episode and report to my psychiatrist at once so he can adjust my medications right away. Sure, I feel like throwing all the meds away like some others. But I know the consequences because I did it before - many times. Let's face it, Bipolar is only one step awayfrom skidzophrenia or madness! I am now 59 I have a good husband who loves me and always stand by me. I have two grown children and 5 grandchildren. And at this moment I am content.
Old lady.

60 year old Female

Posted: 2008-10-18 23:20:38

Answer/Reply:

I to have Bipolar and was once on Haldol, be sure your Dr. watches you closely while on Haldol because I had some very serious side effects and had to be taken off of it. They included tremors, constant shaking and severe restlessness. I could not sit still, sleep etc. for a long time.

37 year old Female

Posted: 2008-10-21 17:40:49

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

what did you do to know that you were bi-polar. please explain your systems to me.

Posted: 2008-10-24 21:17:10

Answer/Reply:

I am on Geodon and i love it ! It has made a big difference for me ! Do you still get angry sometimes ? Because i do, just not sure if i am suppost to still ?

25 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-21 14:17:40

Answer/Reply:

Yes i do still get angry sometimes but it is just easier to get over it !

25 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-28 18:15:11

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Be very careful with the Geodon.I mean it effects everyone differently.For me it caused me rapid heart beat everyday for the 3 months i was on it.I finally asked my doctor if i could stop it cause it made my Anxiety and major panic attacks come back after i haven't had and for years.Don't let the doctor tell you it's ok to go off cold turkey cause mine did and i withdrawled for 2 weeks.Shaking,jittery and throwing up.I have kids tto drive to school so it was very scary going through that but luckily my best friend stayed here with me and actually i had her move in with my family cause now i'm trying to get over Major panic attacks.I'm scared to deal with it alone while my hubby goes to work.So i'm so glad it was convenient for her to move in.The Klonipon and Buspar is the only thing helping me survive right now.I can't wait till these panic attacks go away,and they better cause they have before.Good Luck on the Geodon.Oh and get an EKG cause Geodon could cause heart problems.It works good for most people but for me i'm sensitive so it was a bad choice.I'm 37 and i've been on 13 different meds and my doctor says were running out of options for me.That scares me.Anyways,I know how you feel.God Bless and good luck.

Posted: 2009-02-18 19:14:18

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I am taking Abilify and ever since I have been a lot better. I wished my mom had taken me to a phychatrist back when I was twelve. Because I had ragess and blackouts and hallucinations way back then. It also takes time to find the right medications for you. Because everyone is different.
I have been on Abilify, Zoloft, Cymbalta for One year now and that combination has been working for me. I am in control now, with my medication.And it feels good.

53 year old Female

Posted: 2008-10-06 14:15:06

Answer/Reply:

I can relate in one way. Too many prescriptions and disagree with the diagnosis. I too have been diagnosed with bipolar. I do not agree. I am not a depressed person, just the opposite. I AM extremely hyper, I have anxiety PTSD, I have sleep problems, moderate to severe pain, depending on which day it is, and which pains are bothering me, and I do have anger control issues as well as a touch of control freak problams. I also have fybromyalgia, radiculopathy, D.D.D. and bone spurs in the lower back. Let me not forget about hypothyroidism also. I have been through the drug gauntlet, and am getting tired of taking sooo many different prescriptions that have not changed how I feel or act in 1 way. Currently my dr has me on not 1 not 2 not 3 but 4 different antidepressants...maybe 4 if klonopin is a antidepressant.? not really sure. I just recently got upset in front of my dr enough that i was crying. I informed her by way of letter that I need either A: medications problem needs to be addressed, they r not helping any of my symptoms and have not felt a darn bit different in the 3 yrs of taking the multitude of pills. and B: if you cannot figure something else out then I would like to see a different dr. I got my answer, here's another antidepressant to add to the rest of them. Gee who would have guessed it. There are no openings with any other drs at this time and it will be months before there will be. So the drug list is as follows..... depakote 1000mg nightly, along with abilify, paxil, and prozasin. thats just the meds i can think of at this time. not including the ones from my general practitioner. flexeril, neurontin, levothyroxine, simvistatin. ibuprophen (sp?) don't know if i am even spelling them all right. So your frustration I feel.

I am passed frustrated and about to the point of throwing them all in the trash!!! I hope that we can both recieve the care that we really need. For I am tired of all this drama with psychs! Good luck to all with the problems you are having as well.

36 year old Female

Posted: 2008-09-29 09:38:02

Answer/Reply:

When you sit back and think logically, there was a reason you were put on medication in the first place, you sought help for some sort of action, illness, feeling, that was not normal, correct? Why would you think throwing the meds away is your answer? Let's see, here is my list... Depakote ER 1000mg nightly, metoprol 50mg nightly, zoloft 200mg each morning, klonopin .5mg twice daily, I only take when have anxiety attacks, is prescribed as a daily medication but is not needed on a daily basis, Lortab 7.5 [2 bulging discs in neck] prescribed as 3 per day for chronic pain, only take on an as needed basis, like when pain is too much for an overcounter pain relief, also used for migraine headaches, synthroid 125mg each morning, flexeril, naproxen, lasix.... ok, so I am sure you get the picture here.

Since being diagnosed with Bipolar disorder, my medication has at times changed like a person changes underwear, until it was under control, that is all a part of it, there will also come times when the effectiveness or maybe even life circumstances will cause you to have a need for a medication alteration, dosage, type, etc... this is something you either learn to live with, or revert back to the very behavior that got you on the medication in the first place. So, in essence, which is the lessor evil?

I was sexually abused by a family member when I was a very young child and brutally raped by a stranger on my way home from school when I was 12 years old, neither of which I ever received counseling for. This happened in the day when things were swept under the rug and forgotten. Never to be spoke about again. It was Taboo. I began acting out at a very early age, became pregnant at 14 was married with 2 children at 17 divorced at 18, remarried at 20 another child at 23, divorced again, at 32, remarried at 36 and am now divorced again. I always succeeded within my career though. Until for some strange reason one day everything came crashing down on me and I sought help. THANK GOD for therapy and MEDICATION...

Yes at times it is a pain in the A@@, but I would gladly swallow pills on a daily basis in order to halfway control my emotions, judgement, etc... if you are having problems, the number 1 thing you do is seek your psychiatrist out and explain what you are going through, in DETAIL, so things can be adjusted, you may need a different dose, you may need a new medication all together. Don't just give up... that my friend is what makes us Crazy!

45 year old Female

Posted: 2008-10-28 03:32:57

Answer/Reply:

I was taking about 500 mg of lamictal daily and I too had serious panic attacks. I finally reasoned that the lamictal was to blme so I stopped taking all of it except one 100 mg pill in the morning and one at night.

52 year old Female

Posted: 2008-09-23 03:46:18

Answer/Reply:

I was diagnosed with Bipolar (Manic/Depressive) at age 23, but have known something was off since I was very little. My first visit I was put on Lamictal and it helped a lot, but I was still having problems with depression. Lexapro was then added to the mix and that helped a lot and I had never felt better. I was also put on Trazodone to help me sleep. The clinic that I go to is not at all the greatest. There has only been two people that I have met that weren't rude and inconsiderate, but I dealt with it to get my meds. I have two children and finding someone to watch them so that I can go to my appts. is not easy to come by, but my last appt. before I lost my health insurance, my aunt was willing to watch my kids but I had to be back by a certain time for her to go to an appt. of her own. I signed in and sat in the waiting room, which usually was only 10 - 15 minutes at the most. I sat there for an hour and still hadn't been called! I got up and walked out because I was fed up with the rudeness of the people there. My husband called and was able to talk to the owner of the clinic. He explained the issues that I've had to deal with including the incident that day. Come to find out the women in the reception area never turned in my chart, so noone knew that I was even there. After that day I started my search for a new dr. or clinic to go to, but came up with nothing. We recently got health insurance again and I'm dreading having to go back to that place. The people there don't listen, I've had to argue with the Nurse Practitioner when it comes to my medication because the Lamictal is not working like it did and I asked to be put on an antidepressant due to the Lamictal not taking care of that part on it's own, but at the time I couldn't remember what the name of the one I was on previously. She told me she would look it up in my file and get that taken care of and she never did. I'm tired of these people thinking that this is a game! It's not a game this is my life, it's my health and I want to be at my best so that I can be the best I can be for my family, especially my children!! When did having a doctor's office with friendly helpful people that are willing to welcome and listen to you become to much to ask for?? What is wrong with our medical staff?? When did they lose heart?? I feel for everyone that has this disorder, for me it has been a roller coaster struggle and there have been times when I have just felt that my family and the world would be better off without me! Especially with not having anyone that will listen (other than my husband) and help me...if they don't want to listen or help then why should I even try?? I know the reason...My children and husband, especially my oldest child who has been showing signs of having the disorder as well. I don't want him to grow up not having anyone to understand and be there for him. Don't get me wrong, my husband is loving and is there for all of us, but I know he doesn't completely understand what it is that we go through, since he does not have the disorder. My mother has never understood me and through growing up she didn't have time to deal with my bad times. She would be there for me on my good days and we'd have a lot of fun, but once an episode came along I was tossed to the side and left to find a way to deal on my own. I don't want that for my children. My youngest shows no signs of having bipolar or anything, but I know that I will have to be there for him as well to help him understand the disease. Unfortunantly, this disease not only affects the ones who have it, but the family members as well. Anyway, does anyone know of a website or something that I could go to find a better clinic or Doctor? Is there anywhere to find friendly help??

27 year old Female

Posted: 2008-11-02 20:23:22

Answer/Reply:

If you live in colorado go to rocky mountian phyciatry ! They are verry nice and helpful and will get you in right away if you are having a meltdown ! Good lluck to you !

25 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-21 14:56:27

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Yes i have a women Psychiatrist who lets me go off Geodon cold turkey and she tells me there will be no withdrawls.That's a bunch of B.S. I went through withdrawls for 2 weeks,Shaking ,Jittery,Vomiting and basically got back all my panic attacks i haven't had in years.She didn't care she said oh thats just you,and your Anxiety and panic problem.Anyhoo,she gave me Buspar and Klonopin and so far i'm doing a little better.These Psych docs just want your money and for you to deal with whatever they say.I'm mad and it sucks!Sorry with what your dealing with.God Bless.

Posted: 2009-02-18 19:29:28

Answer/Reply:

shaking is a sign of too much of a dose on one of those. I'm on lamictal for about 2.5 months, I stated with 25mg and wored u to 100mg now on 100mg m
one morning one at night for a total of two mg per day. I also take cymbolta 60mg per day. forget reading side affects, serch on what they are. If you are on too many SSRI THEN THAT MAYBE THE REASON FOR SHAKNG i HAD THAT SO BAD ONE TIME I COULDN'T WRIT MY NAME, THE CAUSE WAS 120 MG OF CYMBOLTA. I READ A RESERCH PAPER ON IT AND IT SAID THAT THERE HAS BEEN NO REASON FOR MOR THA 60MG PER DAY. SERTONIN SYNDROM IS BAD ( SHAKING) THE TROUBLE i HAVE ON LAMICTAL IS TROUBLE SWALLOWING. BUT, IF I DRINK SOMTHING IT STOPS FOR A WHIL AND THEN GOS AWAY. i HAVE PANIC ATTACT AND ANIXITY ANXITY ZANIC DOES IT FOR ME BUT PANIC ATTACTS SOME ONE HAS TO TALK ME DOWN. i'M 57 AND I HAVE BIPOLAR FOR WHICH I DIDN'T KNOW UNTIL I WAS 50 MY LIFE HAD BEEN UP AND DOWN AND I HAD NO IDEAL ABOUT MENTAL PROBLEMS EXCET DEPRESSION UNTIL I APPLIED FOR DISABLITY, I ALSO HAVE COPD AND PINCH NERVE IN MY BACK AND TAKE PERC, FOR THAT WANT TO CHAT MORE ABOUT THIS HERE IS MY EMAIL klmskit @ yahoo.com please put in the subject line thats it's you i don't open emails unles i know who they are from, good luck and God speed, kathy

58 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-19 11:31:33

Answer/Reply:

I used to be the benefits coordinator of a company and had someone with the same problem, the doctor just wouldn't lissten to him and just made him feel unimportant. He called me and I called the insurance company, they looked at the problem and made and exception for him and he was allowed to change doctors.

HOpe this helps.

DOnna F.
donnachris@hotmail.com

43 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-20 10:16:15

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

My 7 yr old daughter, who has been diagnosed with Bipolar and possible ADHD, is now on depakote and does not seem to have any side effects. She has been on this drug for several months.
Our problem is the ADHD drugs riddlin, and vivance. They give her horrible ticks in her face and extremities.
I am very concerned about giving my child these drugs at such a young age, but she is having so much trouble in school that we had to do something.

I wish you luck!!!!
Denice

Posted: 2008-09-18 12:48:45

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Dear iGuard User,

Cymbalta is listed in the iGuard database and has a general risk rating of 2 (Blue). Please be sure to add this to your profile so you can get your personalized risk ratings and any alerts or updates regarding this medication.

Thank you,
Ginny

Posted: 2008-08-19 02:26:28

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

No these two conditions are not the same. But you are correct - similar medications are used to treat both conditions.

Posted: 2008-08-11 17:07:21

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

They have some similar symptoms/characteristics...But I am finding since I have been diagnosed BPD: Borderline Personality Disorder. the symtoms are allot more deeper and sever than Bipolar Disorder...The symptoms although could be similar but more extreme. My moods change a few times through the day as where bipolar you can be in the same mood for a few days or longer at a time.

Posted: 2008-08-12 10:33:34

Answer/Reply:

You don't say what meds you're on. I too am bipolar and have severe anxiety. I have been on meds that calmed the anxiety but I stayed kind of depressed for four years. I got off those meds, started an anti-depressant and went manic.
I hate changing meds and am actually scared to death to do so. Brings panic for me. I'm on new meds since I got off the other ones, they're helping some. But I feel just like you, I don't know how much they're helping and will avoid having to change them.
Are you on any anxiety medicine? A xanax once in awhile when going through changes and fear can be a life saver.
I don't know if I've helped, I just wanted you to know that I know exactly what you're going through. It's part of this disease we have to deal with. A therapist can help too. Thanks.

52 year old Female

Posted: 2008-08-04 19:11:27

Answer/Reply:

I cry over dumb things too. I am isolated and depressed with bipolar and anxiety. Your therapists sound like they're really messed up. I would definitely find someone else. You should be able to discuss what you need to talk about. They shouldn't be controlling everything. They sound like they're the ones who need help. I see a therapist and she's very gentle and patient with me. We talk about what I want.
Also as far as changing meds all the time, we bipolar people have to do that sometimes, I go on the internet under Drugs.com to research any meds they want to put me on. It helps to be educated and it's simple to understand. Good luck and God bless...

52 year old Female

Posted: 2008-08-04 19:18:42

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Whenever you are starting a new medication or if you have any questions about medications that you are currently on, you should always look them up on iGuard.org. Not only will you receive the same information regarding descriptions and drug interactions, you will also receive personalized drug/drug interactions, drug/health interactions, and you can also see patient reported side effects and patients satisfaction along with other valuable information.

Posted: 2008-08-05 09:30:30

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Don't Feel Dumb Or Stupid I Was In A Car Accident In Jan 2008 And By The Grace Of God My Self My Daughter And My Brother Are All Still Here And Living Too Tell Our Story What A Mighty God We Serve, I Have Too Take Alot Of Meds, Xanax Loratab And Topamax Because Of My Ankle Was Broke And I Have Screws And Some Nerve Damage Now I Have Panic Attacks All The Time And My Husband Doesn't Help,I Don't Go Too A Therepst Honey, I Seek God He Is My Way Maker With Out Him I Wouldn't Make It Through The Day And I Don't Have To Worry About it All Being Written On Paper Not That I'm Against Therepst Because I'm Not I've Been There And Now Im trying A Differrent Way I Will Lift You All Up In Pray God Will Give You Strenghth I Know You Can Make It Through This We All Can, God Bless You'all

Michelle

Posted: 2008-08-14 17:08:23

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

dear young lady, i suffer from p.t.s.d. and depression, i have been taking esipram,diazapam,
i have just started on abilify 10mg's. I feel for you, i have been fighting these disorders for 27
years. I have come to the conclusion that i should stop fighting these and axept it. this sou-
nds like i have given up NO! at the risk of sounding philosophical, i have made them friends
of mine,; because if it is a friend it is not so bad.
all the best to you.

cam

Posted: 2008-08-25 19:49:40

Answer/Reply:

I used to cry all the time too, until I started taking Seroquel. It really does keep me calmer and I usually sleep at night. At first I slept for 12 hours on 50mg now I take 200mgs and I sleep 5 hours, thats where Doxepin helps. It helps me eat (I have an appetite) and sleep. I also take Tegretol 1000 mg and Zoloft 200 mgs. Watch out for Depakote if you have a sensitive tummy. I felt so sick all the time!

55 year old Female

Posted: 2008-08-31 20:03:42

Answer/Reply:

Keep trying to get social security. They always reject you the first or second time. You can appeal it and even take them to court. Go to your local county mental health facility and they will help you get on it. Don't give up. If you've been diagnosed with bipolar they can't reject you.

52 year old Female

Posted: 2008-08-04 19:21:29

Answer/Reply:

Not true! I applied for social security disability and got it 6 weeks later. Although I've had back surgery I think it has to do with the way your doctor writes the report to them. Keep trying. They will eventually say yes. I now get social security disability and a little SSI as my disability is not enough to live on. Together they are still not enough, but it is better than welfare. KEEP TRYING.

55 year old Female

Posted: 2008-08-31 19:54:09

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Although doctors have developed a set of well established criteria to help distinguish between bipolar disorder and straight depression, different doctors may interpret your symptoms in different ways. As always, if you are uncomfortable with a diagnosis or need additional reassurance it makes sense to get a second opinion.

Regardless of the diagnosis, though, be sure to tell your doctor if your new medications make you feel differently - whether it's in a good way or in a bad way. This is important information that could really help your treatment plan.

Posted: 2008-08-01 18:29:45

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

It's generally not a good idea to suddenly stop taking medications, especially the ones you listed, without first talking with your doctor. If your side effects are extremely bothersome, your doctor's answering service should be able to direct you to someone who is covering for your doctor while on vacation.

Posted: 2008-07-08 16:39:35