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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
[email protected]Shown: posts 1 to 8 of 8. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Kari1 on October 29, 2004, at 15:34:47
I was told that my brother has classic symtoms of bipolar, but his doctor won't label him as such to his face. I know he suffers from on again off again depression...but his wife said that the doctor told her it was more than just that. So why is he just on Wellbutrin??? Does it treat other symptons as well as depression??? thanks...
Posted by linkadge on October 29, 2004, at 15:50:15
In reply to Wellburtin only for depression????, posted by Kari1 on October 29, 2004, at 15:34:47
Recurrent depression is not bipolar disorder.
Does he have highs as well as lows, or just periodic lows.
If he does have bipolar disorder, he may be taking a mood stabalizer in addition to the antidepressant wellbutrin.
Linkadge
Posted by Kari1 on October 29, 2004, at 17:22:36
In reply to Re: Wellburtin only for depression????, posted by linkadge on October 29, 2004, at 15:50:15
> Recurrent depression is not bipolar disorder.
>
> Does he have highs as well as lows, or just periodic lows.
>
> If he does have bipolar disorder, he may be taking a mood stabalizer in addition to the antidepressant wellbutrin.
>
>
> Linkadge
>
thanks for the post....that's the thing, he does have highs as well as lows. But my sister-in-law says that the doc doesn't ever mention bi-polar to my brother. That's why, with the things i've been reading, it doesn't sound like the wellbutrin is going to take care of the whole problem. I guess he is feeling not as "low" on it...they both can see a difference. But, I don't think they really have educated themselves in the medication department. I don't know if I should say anything to him, because he's very "internal" and doesn't talk about it. He says he has "deep depression." Talk about denial....but this is because his doctor doesn't like to use "labels." I do remember reading about people needing to use a mood stabalizer along with their ani-depressant as well...but no, wellbutrin is all he is on.
Posted by linkadge on October 30, 2004, at 9:45:07
In reply to Re: Wellburtin only for depression????, posted by Kari1 on October 29, 2004, at 17:22:36
hmm, that is interesting.
He would need to fit the criteria of having bipolar disorder before really starting treatment with a mood stabalizer.
Severe depression can lead to fear which can lead to anger. Anger can be a strong symptom of depression. The high, would have to be classified as a strong feeling of empowerment and capability. Fearlessness, recklessness etc.
Oftentimes a bipolar individual will be less than honest to the docotor about any manic symptoms. In this case he/she may be seriously sabatoging himself
Linkadge
Posted by Sebastian on October 30, 2004, at 10:10:51
In reply to Re: Wellburtin only for depression????, posted by linkadge on October 30, 2004, at 9:45:07
It's posibly the doctor won't label him in an attempt to reduce his fears, so that he wouldn't need the extra medicine.
Posted by Kari1 on October 30, 2004, at 12:46:53
In reply to Re: Wellburtin only for depression????, posted by Sebastian on October 30, 2004, at 10:10:51
> It's posibly the doctor won't label him in an attempt to reduce his fears, so that he wouldn't need the extra medicine.
Yes...I agree with the "non-labeling" to not freak him out. But is that really what's best for him in the long run?? What if his children start showing symptoms as they get older??? He has 3 boys...9,8,5....He's not going to know what's really wrong with them, ya know??? Also, he does have those highs...spontaneous spending sprees, boughts of euphoric moods...but....maybe I should just atleast mention it to his wife...just in case the wellbutrin doesn't seems to be working for the manic episodes....reccomend a mood-elevator. thanks so much....
Posted by Sebastian on October 30, 2004, at 16:16:46
In reply to Re: Wellburtin only for depression????, posted by Kari1 on October 30, 2004, at 12:46:53
I'm sure he would like to know though. They never wanted to tell me my diagnosises. I would always have to pry it out of someone. Personaly I think it is best for everyone to talk about it, openly. I tell co-workers, freinds, family, everyone on the internet, my doctors talk and they talk to my parents some times. Yes I'm 28. Never hurt work relations, or prevented me getting a job. Your right he probably needs a mood stabilizer. I take lamictal. Also: zyprexa, bupropion sr(wellbutrin), celexa. The zyprexa is my wonder drug. I just started lamictal, and its pretty good.
Posted by sunshine211 on November 2, 2004, at 0:15:14
In reply to Re: Wellburtin only for depression????, posted by Sebastian on October 30, 2004, at 16:16:46
Same thing here with my brother! They gave him wellbutrin but now they added celexa and he takes seroquel to sleep. They won't label him bi-polar, but definitely depressed.
I think it is just hard to put people into categories, even though it would make things a lot easier.
I know this will be totally ramdom, and don't be offended, but does your bro drink or have any substance abuse problems (past or present)?
This is the end of the thread.
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