Posted by Mark H. on March 31, 2002, at 9:48:11
In reply to zyprexa for atypical depression?, posted by KB on March 28, 2002, at 20:37:47
It works for me, prn.
I *am* bipolar (II), but my depression is both refractive and atypical. I eat and sleep all the time when depressed. I tried more than 25 ADs and adjunctives over a 4 year period before finding the right mix for me.
When my twice-annual cycles became annoyingly agitated a couple of years ago, SLS suggested I try Zyprexa, and my psychiatrist agreed. A ten-day course put me back on track, and I experienced no withdrawal problems on 5mg a day.
Now, I use it infrequently (one or two 2.5mg tablets taken once or twice a month) to "reset" as needed. It's a god-send for me, the perfect fast, short-term intervention. I'm able to stop the problem and recover before the agitation, despair, obsession or rage has a chance to do much psychological damage.
I realize it may not work this well for everyone, but because of its relative safety and fast action, I believe it *may* be worth trying with a broader range of patients, including those with unipolar depression. The enormous "plus" of Zyprexa in those who respond well to it is the potential to use it as needed rather than continuously.
I have not read anywhere that the newer, atypical anti-psychotics (including Zyprexa) cause tardive dyskinesia, nor do I understand why TD is even part of this discussion. Have I missed some new findings? Please let me know, as I don't keep up as well as many of you.
In general, I think we have to be careful about using "always" and "never" when discussing medications, unless there is a documented risk of damaging side effects (as with dangerous drug interactions, for instance). Otherwise, we tend to expose ourselves to the single contradiction that disproves the generality.
I am continuously amazed and grateful for the level of intelligence, concern and care people on this board offer to one another. Thank you all for being here.
With appreciation,
Mark H.
poster:Mark H.
thread:100817
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020327/msgs/101094.html