Posted by ST on February 6, 2002, at 2:56:04
Hi,
My pdoc now has me on what he calls a "maintenance" level of Depakote (500 mg daily). I've never shown any signs of severe mania during or before being medicated. Before I started taking the Deapkote and ADs, I fluctuated between moderate to severe depression and hypomania. Mostly depression. Now I'm surprised to learn that there are actually bi polars out there who are on a small amount of Depakote or another mood stabilizing drug and manage just fine. I've always felt as if I was on "too much" Depakote, but dismissed the thought of further reducing my dosage as my being irresponsible.
The Depakote has been like a wet blanket sitting on top of my emotions, reflexes, creativity, motivation - everything. I've been on this level for over 3 weeks now and I feel like the blanket has been lifted. I'm sleeping 8 to 9 hours a night, I'm able to focus, I don't feel as though my thoughts are racing or that people aren't moving as fast as me. Just level. And alert. I've been instructed to call my pdoc asap if I feel hypomanic and my boyfriend is going to keep an eye on me.
In no way am I saying that mood stabilizers are not necessary if one has been diagnosed as bi polar. I do understand that the manic or hypomanic phase is one in which most bi polars would like to stay despite it's danger. Will I become hypomanic and refuse to up my dosage? I simply want my emotions, my wit, my physical energy and my creativity back.
Is anyone on a "maintenance" level of Depakote or Lithium? Can this really work?
Thanks!
Sarah
poster:ST
thread:93045
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020131/msgs/93045.html