Posted by Ken Robinson on February 4, 2002, at 14:38:10
Hello all, I am a first-timer, I have bipolar I disorder. I am 42 years old. Was first diagnosed in 1977. I am a long cycler with about 6-9 months of year in depression and 1-3 months of mania that occur on a fairly regular yearly cycle. I think it fair to say that I am treatment resistant - meaning that I have not had much positve effect with medications. However have found that mood stabilizers control manic phase,either by completely eliminating or minimizing. The biggest problem for me comes with treating the depression and considering how much time I spend a year in depression, this is a great concern.
My current prescription is 15mg Zyprexa, 300mg Effexor and 20mg Ritalin. Ritalin is new started 1/7 although I have not taken much of it because it just seems to put me in a drug induced stupor.
I am once again frustrated with the medications not working. I have been on the Zyprexa and Effexor since June - 7 months now. I feel this a long enough trial and have communicated with my therapist and case manager that I don't think the current meds are working as they should.
I have a doctor appointment on the 7th of Feb - 3 days from now. I am going to tell the doctor that I want to try something else. To get off Zyprexa, Effexor and Ritalin. Lets dump the whole batch and start something new.
Today found some information on Topomax. I am considering suggesting we (Doctor and I)try this.
I am curious if any of you are or have taken Topomax and what your experiences have been. Also wondering about trying Depacote with a different Anti-depressant, one of SRRI class. I know the Depacote works for controlling my mania but does little if anything for the depression. I think that I have responded well to SRRI class in past but perhaps misdiagnosed myself as becoming manic. ( I tend to associate feeling good with mania). So doctor at the time quickly took me off. Have had this happen about 3 times now. Want to make sure I dont repeat that mistake again, if you tell them you think you are becoming manic they are quick to react. I wish they as quick when it comes to depression.Would like to hear from other treatment resistant bipolars to hear about your experiences with medications particulary if you have found the magic combination that works!
I am once again frustrated, but I am not going to give up and stop taking my meds this time. My mania are just too damn expensive. Last one that escaped my notice until after it was over cost me somewhere between $5K and $8K. $4K worth of debt and $4K manic spending spree trying to start another damn business. Trying to start a business seems to be my favorite manic obsession and I have indicated to several people that my doing so is a big warning sign.
I live in Tucson AZ, have been maried for 20 years and have a 14 year old daughter. Favorite current obsession is computers. (Love Hate relationship :) Last mania has given me 2 10x20 storage sheds full of used computer parts. I recieve disablity, but would like to get off, but would first like to get mood disorder under control, especially these damn long depressions. When I am depressed I have no motivation or confidence in self to work.Sorry for being so long winded here. I am been very reclusive for the past several months and I guess I am starting to get stir crazy!
Sincerly,
Ken Robinson
poster:Ken Robinson
thread:92840
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020131/msgs/92840.html