I'm currently taking Paxil 40 mg. and Wellbutrin 300 mg. Is it ok to add a beta blocker & Tegretol to the mix?

Question

The paxil/wellbutin combination has greatly improved my mood, but I have recently found out that I may have bipolar disorder. I know that mood stabalizers such as Tegretol or Lactimal are usually used in combination with an SSRI for this disorder. I was just wondering if these three would be safe together? Also, would I be causing myself any harm if I added a beta blocker as well to reduce anxiety? I would greatly appreciate any information you could provide. Thank you.

Answer 1

Many bipolar people take Tegretol and an antidepressant. It is very common and in fact most doctors won't put Bipolar patients on an anti-depressant until they are on a mood stabilizer.

Don't listen to these fools. The downside of being on Tegretol is that you need to have it monitored, so you will need blood tests every 3-6 months.

Please see a doctor and they will advise the best medications for you.

Answer 2

Tegretol is a strong medication that can greatly affect the effectiveness of other meds. If you are stable on your Paxil and Wellbutrin, it's possible you'll have to readjust those medication doses while on Tegretol. Only a pharmacist or experienced physician can tell you exactly what the interactions might be. You might also try writing to the company and asking for literature on the interactions.

A beta-blocker should be compatible with the Paxil and Wellbutrin, but in combination with the Tegretol...that's something that definitely needs careful investigation. There are better methods to reduce anxiety. Using a beta-blocker is messing with a lot more than your moods, including heart and blood pressure affects.

You need someone to help you closely monitor your medications. It sounds like you are using too many medications to control a condition that can be better treated with more efficient meds.

Answer 3

EDIT: Tegretol and Wellbutrin are DEFINITELY contra-indicated and not safe to use together.

I am afraid I don't know specifics on combining those drugs, but if I was you I would call your doctor and see what they think. You could also call a pharmacist, even just a random one from the yellow pages to see if there are any contra-indications for those druigs, but your doctor who knows you would be the best source of info.

I have taken depression medications before and my close friend is bi-polar, and you definitely don't want to change things up without doctor supervision. Even seemingly harmless meds can throw off your brain chemicals and really mess you up, not to mention making you feel physically ill as well.

So give your doctor a call and see what he or she thinks, that way you'll know you are safe. :-)

Answer 4

2 x 150 = 300 If they take 300 mg they are taking 2 150 mg doses

Answer 5

Well, you asked for my opinion, so here goes...

Mixing drugs is always risky business. I got into that same rut while I was depressed. Thank God, someone got me a book that showed me how to get out of depression without drugs. It involves healthy lifestyle and cognitive therapy. April will mark my two year anniversary without drugs or doctors. I would never, ever recommend more drugs on top of existing prescriptions. Work to get off of them. It can be done, if you want to bad enough... and are willing to to the work. Email me if you're sick and tired of being sick and tired. Oh, and keep this in mind.... No drug has ever cured depression or bipolar (or is likely to in the future). Ask your doctor to tell you how many patients he/she has gotten out of depression with meds.

Answer 6

Now why the hell would you ask a question like that on Yahell Answers? What do you have a death wish? These are psychotropic medications ... you need to go to a doctor who has a complete picture of your med protocols.

Answer 7

Ask your doctor, sometimes too many meds can create problems you do not have. I had a friend who developed several disorders due to heavy medication.

Answer 8

My friend, you should not be asking anyone on this site these questions. You need to discuss with your physician who prescribed your medications. You are flirting with danger and if you get any other answers, I would not accept them if I were you.

I wish you the best but please consult your physician and no one on line ever for this answer.

Answer 9

surprised your still walking, talk to your druggists, READ the warning label, and the SIDE Effects, your depression pills causes depression, which can trigger bi[polar symptoms.