Until they know exactly what is wrong with your liver, it is tough to put you on meds. Most meds are metabolized by the liver; some even affect the metabolism rates of the liver and how other meds are metabolized. Very few meds bipass the liver. But there are some. Search until you've found a pdoc who knows what they're doing when it comes to comorbidity, and don't give up until you are back where you need to be.

pdoc's are suppose to have blood tests performed very often to avoid the liver getting messed up. I get mine checked every few months.

I feel sad that it got to this point...

I'm with atwater I get my blood work done every few months too. My pdoc warned me that the meds could effect my liver. Sorry to hear that this happened tpo you. Hopefully being off the meds for a little while will straighten things up with your liver. Be patient I know things ar not honky dory but it is better then your liver failing.....

You can only go so far. I can manage up to 90% of self control and behavior without meds, but it is that emergency situation, when life gives you a curve ball where a person might wig out.

Aging out helps; maturity helps; eastern philosophy in combo with Christianity helps; nutrition and sleep help; some vitamins help, but when the balls hit the bone, eventually, SOME TYPE OF MED is needed.

For me, I don't know what that med is. I can control up to 90% as I said, of my emotions, but when something flippy or unpredictable happens, I freak out. So far, I've been lucky.

I can't stand doctors, stigma or normals who get in my face, but at the same time, I know, the time is coming, when something will have to be done. I just want a doctor who sees me as the daughter of intellectuals who has my OWN mind and I want help that is proactive and positive, not to be treated as an idiot.

Meds can really help; it is just the type of med and how it affects the person. Survivors will demonize the system at times. What I believe is that you have to be careful and choose a mental health professional who will really help you. And, you need a med that will have minimal side effects.

Yes, a good psychiatrist will always order blood tests for those patients who have meds that affect the liver or kidneys.

I'm on Depakote right now. I'm so sorry to hear both that you can't be on it anymore and that you developed liver dysfunction. I remember what it was like when I didn't have my medication. I found some information about medication for bipolar for people that have liver problems if you would like to check it out. After reading it maybe you could print it, take it to a knowledgeable p-doc, and discuss your options. Good luck.

http://www.bipolarworld.net/Phelps/ph_2002/ph621.htm

I'm sorry that you're having a rough time of it. I hope they find something that's safe for you and that will also help you stay on an even keel and lets you have a good night's sleep.
I hope your liver biopsy turns out okay!!! (((((Hugs)))))

im so sorry your going threw this big gental hugs minnie

Thank you all for your comments & support. My doctor was doing blood work on me regularly & my liver enzymes had increased a bit but nothing to be concerned about. I had to have another blood test today to see if I have too much protein in my blood which can also cause high liver enzymes. When I was first diagnosed Bipolar, Lamictal worked great for me but after my dosage was increased I had a severe allergic reaction which almost killed me.

I have been off Depakote now completely for about a week & I can tell I'm starting to lose it and my co-workers can't stand being around me. I have very high-highs, not much depression.

I am also diabetic & have been taken off my Metformin too.

nana, sorry you're having such a rough time with your meds. I hope they can find something safe for you to take.

I take abilify; I don't know if that affects the liver or not. Wishing you luck in finding a safe solution.

In the meantime to relax, Valerian can help. It's an herb you can get at Walgreen's.

so sorry to hear that i hope it's not too bad and you find something to help

So sorry about your health problems.