Posted by SLS on July 17, 2004, at 6:41:29
In reply to Re: Thanks all, posted by Dinah on July 16, 2004, at 22:47:33
> I do feel somewhat reassured.
> You're right, Gabbi. I was scared it would be like Wellbutrin or Effexor.
Different is different. Sometimes, that's all the rationale you need to try something new.
> I've been prescribed Provigil for the narcolepsy *I* don't think I have, but that the neurologist thinks is possible even though my sleep tests weren't definitive, because I go into REM sleep earlier than normal.
Going into REM sleep early is one of the hallmark features of endogenous depression. I don't think it is a valid symptom to use to make a differential diagnosis between depression and narcolepsy. If that's the only thing they see, they have done nothing more than to confirm the work that has been conducted in depression research since the 1960s.
> Anyway, I hate to say it, but I'm mainly agreeing to take it because I'm curious,
Me too. It is not a bad idea to try.
> I understand it's not like AD's so I can quit taking it when I'm hypomanic, right?
Do you really get hypomanic? I didn't know you were bipolar II. When was your last hypomanic episode? What are the things you experience that distinguish you as being bipolar?
> If there aren't hideous side effects from stopping, I suppose I can give it a try and stop it if I feel awful.
Yup. No harm done.
> The only psych meds I'm on are Depakote (125 mg)
That is a worthless dosage for a bipolar if you ask me. I have an open mind, though.
> and Klonopin (1 mg).
What's that for?
> Although I'm reasonably certain my Glucophage has an adverse effect on my mood and generally makes me feel cr*ppy.
Ouch. I didn't know Glucophage could do that. That stinks.
> Now I have to decide whether or not to actually consider the CPAP machine. I think I'm too lazy to do the cleaning involved and I'll end up with Legionnaires disease or something.
Since I've got you over here on the Med board...
What is your diagnosis and why? There is so much I don't know about you.
What drugs are you taking and at what dosages?
How are the drugs you are taking right now helping?
What are your residual symptoms? What are you experiencing right now that still needs to be treated?
You don't have to answer any of my silly questions if you don't want. I won't take it personally. I do have a few more, though.
I think trying Provigil is a great idea. I wish you luck.
:-)
- Scott
poster:SLS
thread:366935
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040714/msgs/367079.html