Posted by JavaJava on April 4, 2002, at 21:05:22
In reply to Question for you all, posted by johnj on April 4, 2002, at 20:23:05
Hi John, welcome, to a fellow newbie! Here's another long post from me:
I can only speak for myself and my experiences here, especially concerning Neurontin. I take 2000 mg./day. Neurontin is actually an anti-seizure med and is also used for pain management, but recently was discovered to help in anxiety, and is also being used for bipolar disorder.
I'm bipolar, and three years ago, my symptoms really dissipated, so much so that my pdoc released me from his care. I was taking no meds, but having MUCH pain with my periods every month, and was considering a hysterectomy, since I'm almost to menopause, anyway. But I was worried that that would bring on my BP symptoms, since my hormones would be screwed up, so my doctor suggested I start taking Neurontin, "just in case."
Turns out I didn't have to have the surgery after all, because the Neurontin stopped the pain! I continue taking it because it does act as a mood stabilizer, and is much easier to manage than lithium. It also doesn't do the residual damage that lithium can do, and doesn't have to be monitored, like lithium.
But it doesn't help with hormonal mood swings -- at least, not for me! -- so that's why I'm now starting Effexor, and why I started posting here.
Good luck with your meds. I would *guess* that the aerobic exercise connection with the Pamelor has something to do with the endorphins in your brain being stimulated? I know if I'm feeling down and take a fast walk around my neighborhood, it revs me up, sort of lifts the depression. Maybe some connection in your case?
But ask your doctor, especially if you're having discomfort with the side effects. And post to this board! I'm finding it to be very helpful.
poster:JavaJava
thread:101796
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020402/msgs/101872.html