carlucci44

Close Bipolar Disorder

I was diagnosed, tried several meds and am still struggling to find the best treatment.

Treatments

Abilify Not Working

I tried it and couldn't tell if it was working. I did have restlessness, a side effect I'd been warned about, which cause my doc to switch to Geodon, which was a disaster.

Ativan Working / Worked

My favorite. Helps me sleep without sedating me and truly works during moments of extreme panic. No pain in the neck side effects like weight gain. Prevents extremes and regulates sleep.

Depakote Somewhat Helpful

Like Seroquel, it worked when I was hospitalized, but I wouldn't stick with it due to sedation and weight gain. Side effects too extreme.

Geodon Not Working

I fully and abruptly abandoned Geodon. While drugs like Seroquel and Depakoate made me sleep in too late, Geodon made me feel narcileptic when I had to work. I'd sleep in far too late but not feel refreshed when I woke up. I'd have persistent dizzyness and lack of energy, even on excess sleep.

Lamictal Working / Worked

I think Lamictal works with minimal side effects. I feel like it does "stabilize" me to an extent, but can't help wondering if that's in my head. Either way, I love that the side effects aren't deal-breakers.

Seroquel Somewhat Helpful

Seroquel helped when I was admitted and diagnosed for mania, but I couldn't stick with it lock term. Extreme constipation, sedation and fear of weight gain. Could easily sleep in til 3pm on it.