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Re: Lamictal for depression? Peter & Judy

Posted by Zeke on January 10, 2000, at 4:14:16

In reply to Lamictal for depression?, posted by Peter on January 7, 2000, at 13:10:11

Peter --

The Merck Manual reports that Lamictal, "may provoke suicidal behavior." (see: http://merck.com/pubs/mmanual/tables/189tb6.htm) Of course, that claim is clouded by the fact that suicidal behavior is not uncommon with depression itself.

You might get some other ideas from the Treatment section for depression there also: http://merck.com/pubs/mmanual/section15/chapter189/189b.htm

I agree with others that stimulants and other pro-dopaminergic drugs might be helpful. The stimulants in particular (Ritalin, Dexedrine, Desoxyn, Adderall) should specifically considered since they have an antidepressant effect in themselves, as compared to simply augmenting an antidepressant. MAO inhibitors also seem absent from the list you posted and (most) also effect dopamine -- increase dopamine levels.

The theories about Borna Virus and depression (and other psychiatric disorders and chronic fatigue syndrome) are relatively new. They may or may not be significant. None the less, amandadine has multiple effects -- including but not limited to dopamine. It also effects serotonin and norepinephrine for example. (for more re amantadine and depression see: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/htbin-post/Entrez/query?uid=10333162&form=6&db=m&Dopt=b) So Borna virus or not, it could be helpful.

The other item that seemed missing was use of thyroid hormones to potentiate ADs. JohnL is right -- you have many other options unexplored. Your frustration is understandable and something I've felt. But options abound.

Judy -- I'm curious why ECT was not an option for you. I assume you're speaking of a personal decision, not for medical reasons. I've not had ECT but had epilepsy in my childhood and don't feel I have the gross brain pathology that some of the antipsychiatry (anti ECT) sites aspouse. Despite what Dr. Breggin and others say, the method is relative harmless and the effect of an ECT seizure vs. an 'epileptic' seizure are the same. I'm curious how these antiscience people rationalize that there are many epileptics without the destructive mental effects they claim of this procedure, especially as used currently (unilateral not bilateral, limited course of treatments). Love and compassion are desirable and beneficial but usually not effective in themselves in serious mood disorders. And most psychanalysis and pop psychology hasn't prooven itself in scientific study. But I can see how you would feel somewhat better now as you were concurently on 5 meds before. That's a pretty hefty mix and can certainly leave you feeling zonked. But good luck to you. (And use critical thinking re Dr. Breggin's notions, since he dosen't.)


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poster:Zeke thread:18307
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