Depression Support Group
Depression is a real and debilitating condition that is often misunderstood by family and friends. Its meaning can range from a prolonged period of sadness to an actual mental illness with specific symptoms. Find and share experiences with others who are going through the same struggles.
Hello everybody. I am just joining the depression group. I hope to get some kind of insight to help my condition. Well since I have every thing in the book. lol!! It is hard dealing with all of this especially bipolar disorder. Right now I am talking 20 mg Lexapro which is not helping now but making my manic and depression worst. I am also take .25 mg Clonazepam which help me calm my nerve and go to sleep. I don't think I can deal with this anymore because it is making my life pure hell. I'm in school and I can't focus on my work. I don't have a job which is bad because I am in over $4000 worth of debts. Maybe I will get better but right now I am so depress that I hurt my wrist all of the time.
Welcome to DS. I really hope you find some answers and support here.
HUGS
It sounds like you have a good relationship with your professional caregiver(s). Make sure you are completely up front with them about everything, including how you are doing on your medications. The more they know, the more they can help.
They know best, and always take their advice over anyone elses. Sorry you are having a rough time with some of your medications. Make sure they know all about it. As for Abilify, it very well could do wonders for you and if they recommend it, go for it. It does have some serious side effects for SOME people. I only mention that so you can watch for any of them and tell your doctor.
It is an add-on .. and is to be taken 'behind' other medications.
"Allergic reactions have ranged from rash, hives and itching to anaphylaxis, which may include difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue.
Serious side effects may include:
An increased risk of stroke and ministroke has been reported in clinical studies of elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis
Very high fever, rigid muscles, shaking, confusion, sweating, or increased heart rate and blood pressure. These may be signs of a condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a rare but serious side effect which could be fatal
Abnormal or uncontrollable movements of face, tongue, or other parts of body. These may be signs of a serious condition called tardive dyskinesia (TD), which may be permanent
If you have diabetes, or risk factors for diabetes (for example, obesity, family history of diabetes), or unexpected increases in thirst, urination, or hunger, your blood sugar should be monitored. Increases in blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia), in some cases serious and associated with coma or death, have been reported in patients taking ABILIFY and medicines like it
Lightheadedness or faintness caused by a sudden change in heart rate and blood pressure when rising quickly from a sitting or lying position (orthostatic hypotension) has been reported with ABILIFY.
ABILIFY and medicines like it can affect your judgment, thinking, or motor skills. You should not drive or operate hazardous machinery until you know how ABILIFY affects you.
Medicines like ABILIFY can impact your bodys ability to reduce body temperature; you should avoid overheating and dehydration.
ABILIFY and medicines like it have been associated with swallowing problems (dysphagia). If you had or have swallowing problems, you should tell your healthcare professional.
Tell your healthcare professional if you have a history of or are at risk for seizures, or are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, and about all prescription and non-prescription medicines you are taking or plan to take, since there are some risks for drug interactions.
While taking ABILIFY, avoid:
Drinking alcohol
Breast-feeding an infant
Most common side effects (?10%) from all clinical trials involving adults or pediatric patients include:
ADULTS: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, dizziness, an inner sense of restlessness or need to move (akathisia), anxiety, insomnia, and restlessness
PEDIATRIC PATIENTS (10 to 17 years): Extrapyramidal disorder (for example, uncontrolled movement disorders or muscle disturbances such as restlessness, tremors and muscle stiffness), headache, sleepiness, and nausea
It is important to contact your healthcare professional if you experience prolonged, abnormal muscle spasm or contraction which may be signs of a condition called dystonia.
For patients who must limit their sugar intake, ABILIFY Oral Solution contains sugar.
For patients with phenylketonuria or PKU, ABILIFY DISCMELT (aripiprazole) contains phenylalanine."
http://www.abilify.com/#isi_anchor
Also, here is something just for DS newcomers:
http://dailystrength.org/groups/new-to-ds
Welcome to DS.
HUGS
Im sorry your in such a crappy place - I assure you youll find support here.
Perhaps speak to your doctor about your medicine. I was on lexapro once and it messed with my moods in really dangerous ways. Definately get in touch and get that stuff changed up!