Bipolar Disorder Support Group

Bipolar disorder is not just a single disorder, but a category of mood disorders marked by periods of abnormally high energy and euphoria, often accompanied by bouts of clinical depression. This is the place to talk about your experience with bipolar disorder, learn from others' experiences, and find support.

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bookmaven 11/01/2009

I haven't been on an anti-depressant for awhile but I think I really need to be on one now. I've tried Wellbutrin and Zoloft and Paxil, none of which worked very well for me. I've heard Effexor is very good for treating depression in people with Bipolar. And I've seen a little about Pristiq too. I like that Pristiq is supposed to have fewer side effects. Has anyone been on both? Or even just one or the other? When I do go in for my med adjustment I'd like to take some suggestions in with me.
Thanks,
b.

deleted_user 11/01/2009

Basically, your body breaks down Effexor into Pristiq when you take it (chemically).

Pristiq was mostly produced because the drug company's patent on Effexor ran out, and there is generic available. So Effexor is much cheaper now.

I would check and see the cost of the two (with your insurance). If there is no price difference, get Pristiq. It is 'cleaner' because it eliminates a step in metabolizing Effexor, and there are reports of fewer side effects as you said.

The antidepressant effects of the two drugs should be the same though- same chemical.

deleted_user 11/01/2009

I was on Effexor and then switched to Pristiq. I have been on many anti depressants and Effexor worked the best for me. The switch to Pristiq so far seems to be a good move.

TasteForPhree 11/01/2009

Effexor made me manic...its how I found out I have bpd. good luck whatever you choose!

deleted_user 11/01/2009

Effexor kindled my Depression and that is how I found out I had Bp. I went hyper-maniac...
So, just be cautious..

Bluefly 11/02/2009

I'm on Effexor now and it has helped with my depression. I haven't had any side effects from it.

Good luck to you.

deleted_user 11/04/2009

I'm currently taking Effexor with Wellbutrin and Lamictal and I was doing really well with that combination. I was on Effexor and Wellbutrin and then diagnosed with bpd so Lamictal was added though - I hate taking all 3. So it's worked well for me, but I hear it's hard to get off of sometimes.
I hope you find the right combo.

deleted_user 12/21/2009

I'm taking the exact same thing as readinggirl2!! Well technically I'm also on buspar but I don't take it anymore because I don't really feel that I need to. But I absolutely love effexor, or wellbutrin, I don't know which is the best since I've only been on them at the same time! I'm not really sure about the lamictal. I've stopped taking it by myself and still felt fine and I'm taking it and feel fine. Not really sure if I even need it. But anyways, I'd say effexor is great and then if it makes you hypomanic they can add a mood stabilizer

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