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.
Yeah, it started off well, then it hit me yesterday that this combo is not working well.
I'm on 600 mg lithium and 200 mg wellbutrin and I have been in a manic rage since yesterday and I just don't know what to do.
I went to my dr.'s office and left a message with the receptionist.
I want to go back to my old combo of effexor and lamictal...but I don't know how I'll afford it once I graduate in May. We're talking approximately $300 each month right now (I get about 85% reimbursed by insurance). My parents gave me permission to go back to what works best regardless of cost but I don't know how to talk to my doc. I'm afraid she thinks I'm freaking out over nothing.
But I know the difference between adjustment and mania. This is mania.
Suggestions?
I'm on 600 mg lithium and 200 mg wellbutrin and I have been in a manic rage since yesterday and I just don't know what to do.
I went to my dr.'s office and left a message with the receptionist.
I want to go back to my old combo of effexor and lamictal...but I don't know how I'll afford it once I graduate in May. We're talking approximately $300 each month right now (I get about 85% reimbursed by insurance). My parents gave me permission to go back to what works best regardless of cost but I don't know how to talk to my doc. I'm afraid she thinks I'm freaking out over nothing.
But I know the difference between adjustment and mania. This is mania.
Suggestions?
My own Doctor has told me that studies have been done that show that anti-depressants don't seem to help Bipolar illness that much. Except to may be make mania worse. I think you really need to talk to your Doctor about these things. It can be done in a manner that leaves the ball in her court and doesn't sound like you are trying to undermine her medical authority. Something simple like, "I was wondering what my last Lithium level was? I'm not sure if it's helping me at this point." Then you tell her how your symptoms of mania seem to be worse. Always end a statement with the question, "What do YOU think?" You can even tell her that a nut ball friend of yours ( me ) said that anti-depressants can make mania worse. Do YOU think this is true?" Just let her see that you are letting her be the Doctor. You are just asking questions and leaving the decisions up to her. Am I making any sense? We all have to be able to talk to our Doctors or we won't get any better. Go for it!
Based on my experience Wellbutrin is a big NO NO for me.
It drives me insane, extrremely manic and irrational.
I hope you are able to find the balance you need. Take care.