Lithium
Posted , 3 users are following.
I'm still working on finding the right cocktail. Seriously considering lithium. Did this medication work for you?
1 like, 5 replies
We want the community to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the community are not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in respect of any healthcare matters. Always speak to your doctor before acting and in cases of emergency seek appropriate medical assistance immediately. Use of the community is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified as being in breach of those terms.
×
Notes on Lithium
karin65289 su1977
Posted
Hi Su,
I've been on Lithium for 10 years, very successful. Over the years the doctor added an antidepressant (Cipralex) and a antipsychotic(Seraquel) as as was necessary. I am used to the Lithium bloodwork and don't mind it.
su1977 karin65289
Posted
That's wonderful to hear. Did you battle anxiety as well and if so did the lithium help with that or was it the other added medications that addressed that condition?
Thank you so much for responding!
karin65289 su1977
Posted
Oops, during the time I've been on Lithium I was prescribed Clonzapam (as needed for anxiety). To date the Clonzapam is the only med that takes care of the anxiety quickly and effectively.
The problem with Clonzapam (a Benzodyazipine) is one often forms a dependancy and the withdrawal is a nasty process. I too battle with anxiety, sometimes it's so bad I won't go outside. I will continue using the Clonzapam as needed since I know it works.
Good luck to you Su. It takes a while to get the meds straightened out. Be patient and ask lots of questions. Karin
BraunWynn su1977
Posted
Sorry to here your struggling. Your support system along with a medication treatment plan are paramount. I am bipolar 1 & rapid cy cycler. Recently diagnosed like yourself.
I have been on Lithium for over seven months plus additional mood stabilizers have not worked. Everyone is different but I would certainly consider it. I have sone nasty side effects from it, however it's the only drug that is keeping my moods more managable. Error on the side of caution and do not disclose your illness at work. People stll engage in Neanderthal thinking and for the vast majority will treat you different and will find a way to legally dismiss you. I have been through this myself and many others in the mental health community have experienced very simialr humiliating and demoralizing situations. Let us kniw how your doing.
su1977 BraunWynn
Posted
I have bipolar II which makes my highs really high and lows incredibly low. In addition I have severe anxiety. That is the part I'm trying to treat. I thought the lamotrigine and thornton was helping to stabilize my mood but I've recently increased my buspirone (for anxiety) but it seems to be making things worse. I thought maybe lithium would be more effective. I've already made it known at work but people seem to be rather supportive so far. Hopefully it doesn't backfire on me. Thank you for your advice. While the side effects seem lousy, at least it's helping with the mood swings. Ugh, this is so exhausting.