neourontin and lithium? The patient was depressed...dont you think all this would turn him into a zombie who couldn't function..Do you think the Dr. was irresponsible?
2007-02-05 10:59:54 · 4 answers · asked by Olive 4 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Medicine
I have been working with the mentally ill for some time now and most of the clients I work with are on baskets full of medication. Risperidal, Depakote, Clonazepam, you name it they take it. I'm not sure how to react to it. In a way it can be viewed as irresponsible, but supposedly, it's all for the wellbeing of the person. The only way to look at it is "how would they be OFF of all that medication"? If they would be fully functional, I say it's very irresponsible, but if they end up committing suicide, I'm sure the meds were much needed.
2007-02-06 16:45:14 · answer #1 · answered by stu12019 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The problem with this question is that there are many other factors to consider. Your first step should be to talk to the doctor and find out exactly what condition(s) are being treated. Neurontin has SEVERAL indications for use, and these drugs are rarely prescribed for a simple depression. This combo is most likely being used for a bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorders are never treated with just one drug and because there is no set treatment for this, it's pretty much a trial basis. These are very good drugs (pretty much standard of care right now). Unfortunately sedation is a side effect of both drugs. Most patients are able to overcome the sedation in a matter of a few weeks. If not, you should call your doctor and try a different therapy. I wouldn't try to alter the therapy on your own. Coming on and off these drugs with out proper tapering can cause much more problems.
2007-02-05 19:35:46 · answer #2 · answered by kds6107 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Based on just the information you gave me, I do not think the Dr. was irresponsible. It's very possible to be on those 4 medications. Just to give one possibility: Lithium for bipolar, Risperdal as a mood stabilizer, trazadone for sleep, and neurontin for neuropathic pain.
2007-02-06 02:11:47 · answer #3 · answered by rklst9pitt 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't think it's odd at all. I've been on both, and even had more meds on top of that. Watch out for that Risperdal though. I gained 20 lbs. in three months, and I DID NOT eat that much. If you still have a question about this dosage, you might check with another doctor and see what they think.
2007-02-05 19:05:30 · answer #4 · answered by Bud's Girl 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋