This ? is for individuals with bipolar........What meds are taken that work? Do u know of any support groups?

Question

Bipolar

Answer 1

Well, all of the meds work for someone, but the trick is finding a combination that works for you. Anecdotally, a lot of people (myself included) seem to be doing very well on Lamictal (lamotrigine), and I also take Zyprexa (olanzapine).

The best place to find out about what really works is to join one of the online support groups (which kind of answers the second part of your question). The ones I recommend (and use) are:

http://www.crazyboards.org and
http://z9.invisionfree.com/Bipolar_Haven

Answer 2

I have Bipolar 1 and I rapid cycle. I've taken many different meds over the years. I was diagnosed in 1993, but didn't start taking meds until a few years after that. I denied that I had such a thing. I didn't understand it. Anyway, you name it, I've probably tried it. The first line of defense that most doctors favor is Lithium. It's been used for decades to treat bipolar patients. It's also available in time-release form which is easier on the stomach. Lithium has really helped me but I hate the side effects. I've just learned to live with it. It has vastly improved my mood, even though I am very tired and I have to know where the bathroom is wherever I go. It's very annoying but there's nothing like it as far as my moods are concerned. However, there are no quick fixes. Sometimes the drugs you take wear off and don't work anymore. It's almost like your body got used to it. So it's really a constant battle to figure out what works, then try something else when that one wears out. This disease sucks but you just have to deal with it the best you can. I won't preach at you, but prayer has helped me through this. I am convinced that God sent me to my doctor, who has worked very hard to keep me from killing myself and keep me on my meds, etc. I've been so manic for such a long time that my doctor has suggested ECT's, which I won't do (don't even get me started on that..). They help lots of people and they're a good alternative when no other drugs have helped. You can find support groups in your area by trying: www.nami.org

That's the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill

Hope this helps! Write me if you need to talk.

Answer 3

i have been bipolar for a long time. I have taken a lot of different meds. right now I am on trileptal and lexapro,lithium,ativan. I was on wellbutrin but I had two head injuries and they took me off. I also have diabetes and take metformin. I go to many support groups through mental health.

Answer 4

I have had bipolar now for over 10 years and have been on alot of different meds, but for the last few years I have been taking Lexapro and as long as I take it every day it works for me. Good luck.

Answer 5

There are plenty of medications out there but one thing I think is important is to be honest and realize that you need medications and counseling as well. A good mood stabilizer is important to keep from going from one extreme to the other. My daughter takes Depakote er, cymbalta, and seroquel. My brother takes klonipin and geodon. The geodon stops the voices. Check with nami.org to find a support group in your area or check with your local mental health office for info on a support group. I would also advise you to check out the various groups on yahoo and see if there is a support group there. I belong to one for the parents of bipolar kids. I have found it extremely helpful in understanding this condition.

Answer 6

A bipolar disorder is a very difficult one to resolve. There isn't any particular medication that can be prescribed that will work for certain. It takes a great deal of experimentation by a doctor who has a great deal of experience with psychopharmacology. The person who has the disorder will have to take a drug for manic, one to stabilize in the middle and one for depression. A good shrink can tell who the support groups are in your area.