Posted by Sheilac on August 12, 2015, at 13:54:49
In reply to Re: Sheilac - Geodon add on? » Sheilac, posted by phidippus on August 12, 2015, at 13:12:35
Tegretol caused too many side effects and interactions with other meds. I love Trileptal, except for the severe joint pain and painful swelling.
Last year I started using a low dose of 250mg Depakote Sprinkles for depression. It added a boost to my mood. Then, after 2 surgeries this year I stopped taking it.
I am under a great deal of stress (mother dying of cancer), we've moved once this year and will probably move again (which means I am doing all the packing & moving) and I've had 2 surgeries, etc. the list of major stressors goes on.
It's very important for me to get good sleep, and the only way to achieve that is through taking melatonin & Atarax is a must to knock me out.
I've never gone beyond 500mg of Depakote. At 500mg it makes me hyper and full of energy. I actually got so revved up on Depakote I removed all the wallpaper in 3 bathrooms of my house and I couldn't stop. I was sweating with energy.
Because I sometimes like a martini or a glass of wine, I've been afraid to go beyond the 500mg of Depakote.
For some reason I reacted poorly on the Depakote ER, but I do very well on the Sprinkles. Doesn't make sense, but they seem like 2 different meds.
I hate the thought of blood tests and possibly frying my liver.
But I feel like I've run out if options.
Right now, I'm taking 375mg Depakote Sprinkles in the morning with either a Xanax or Klonopin and I'm trying to take Depakote in the afternoon as well, but I'm afraid. I think at the very least I need another 375mg in the afternoon.
My doc wanted to push the Geodon, but it made me too irritable. My sweet spot with Geodon is 120mg and works fantastic. But my life is spinning out if control and I need sleep and more stabilization.
I guess I shouldn't be afraid to up the Depakote to at least 750mg a day. I might lose some hair, but maybe the higher dose won't make me hyper. Or maybe I just take it with a Klonopin. Maybe after a week of a constant dose my blood with have a steady stream of Depakote and all will be better.
I wish Trileptal worked. I loved that med.
Thanks for your concern and listening to me. I know I shouldn't be afraid of Depakote, but it's nice to get some opinions & encouragement here on the board.
poster:Sheilac
thread:1081174
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20150806/msgs/1081340.html