I need to also sayI was on antidepressents they made me go into a manic stage I am 55?

Question

I wanted to know if this med will [lamical] will bloat me back up and hurt my stomach. I cant go through that again. has anyone used this drug

Answer 1

I read both of your questions, Rosey. It is too bad that you were not diagnosed correctly to begin with. A good psychiatrist would not have put you on antidepressants without a mood stabilizer if your diagnosis was Manic Depression (Bi-Polar Disorder).
I think the drug you are inquiring about is LAMICTAL, an anti-seizure medication. You can read about it at : http://www.lamictal.com/epilepsy/hcp/indications/faq.html
I don't think this medication will cause bloating, and most people have no problems with it. You have had a bad reaction in the past and it is causing some anxiety, I think. What I know for certain is that if you are Bi-Polar you need a medication. Living without the meds is miserable. You won't know if Lamictal is a good medication for you or not unless you try it. The Depakote you were on does not usually cause serious stomach problems, so maybe you have a sensitive stomach.
You have discovered a lot about yourself : 1.you cannot take antidepressants without a mood stabilizer because it triggers the mania, 2. you have a sensitive stomach, 3. you are currently anxious. ....... Start keeping a daily diary about how you feel after you start on the Lamictal. If you have adverse reactions, call your doctor. Take your diary to your doctor on your next appointment. It will help the doctor assess your progress. There are other anti-convulsants that are available if this one doesn't work, and as a responsible adult you will be able to help your doctor make informed decisions. ...... Good Luck ! I understand EXACTLY how you feel !

Answer 2

I was on Paxil for a brief time and it made me so manic that I had to stop using it. What a wild ride!!

Don't know Lamical, but did you speak to your doctor about your concerns? If he's aware that this is a side effect, he should try you on something else. Sorry for the imcomplete answer; it's just nice to know there are adults here with real questions.

Answer 3

I take Lamictal. When I started it I was able to lose weight!
I have found it to be very effective. i have had no side efffects. There is one worrisome side-efffect called Jackson-Wyllis (sp?) syndrome, that can cause high fever and be dangerous, but it is extremely , very, very rare.
Take it with food, just in case, if you have an unussually sensitive stomach.
~Gary RN