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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Withdrawals and their symptoms

Bugdust
Bugdust

i have changed meds for my bipolar 1 too many times to count. Why is it that drs completely explain the new drug and what to expect and never talk with you about the withdrawal symptoms you will experience as you try to get off the old drug? 


It is a big deal to me to know what to expect when I have to stop taking an antipsychotic just to be put on another. I have had the hardest times coming off of drugs. From brain zaps for weeks to nausea and vomiting to chills and sweating and increased anxiety. 


I believe withdrawal from a drug should be discussed between the dr and the patient just like drug side effects like weight gain, restlessness and dizziness are discussed. Why is this information withheld, minimized or altogether excluded?

Joe100
Joe100
I'm also amazed at how easily a Doc can change your meds. Consider cutting pills in pieces and slowly getting off them. Its not easy but its helped me. Sometimes taking pills 18 hours or 24 hours apart -- or 36 hours -- partial pills and longer times also are important.
Jenniferswe
Jenniferswe
They should warn you about the withdrawls. Hugs.
arfie
arfie
Expert I ain't, but I am betting they do not have access to the information. The long-term effects of new miracle drugs can't be known until they have been around for a long-term. The long-term effects of heroine weren't known until the addiction problem was out-of-control. Similar stories exist for quite allot of the now-illegal drugs our governments spend millions to eradicate. Then we get to the mixing of the "med cocktails."

It be an ouchy problem, Bug. Sure wish we had a clean and easy fix for it. Pun intended.
MayB
MayB
Sounds like a toughie Bug...I agree with you that information about drugs good and bad points needs to be discussed and you have to be included in the circle of treatment....however that isn't usually the case.

Your job? Keep track of everything you have taken what worked what didn't so that you are armed against future assaults....good luck it sounds tough!
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