Bipolar taking Lamictal, had fainting spell after exercise. - Bipolar Disorder Message Board

justin1 · 05-21-2004, 12:02 PM

I am a 25 year old male who has been diagnosed with bipolar for about 12 years. I used to be on lithium, but stopped taking all meds some 6 years ago because of the side effects. One Month ago,I began taking Lamictal in an attempt to get my extreme anxiety, self destruction, and general unhappiness under control.
Things were going great until last night, when I played hockey very intensely and then blacked out and collapsed in the parking lot after the game. I was out for a few seconds, then had violent nausea and vomiting, along with cold sweats. Then, I felt fine. I must say that I smoked some mj after the game, and Im wondering if this is something I should have checked out? Was this a seizure, or could it be my heart, of was it dehydration from exercise, or all of the above. I have never had a seizure before, and I wonder if being on an anticonvulsant could have some effect like this.
Any feedback would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Justin

Polaris · 05-21-2004, 12:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by justin1

I am a 25 year old male who has been diagnosed with bipolar for about 12 years. I used to be on lithium, but stopped taking all meds some 6 years ago because of the side effects. One Month ago,I began taking Lamictal in an attempt to get my extreme anxiety, self destruction, and general unhappiness under control.
Things were going great until last night, when I played hockey very intensely and then blacked out and collapsed in the parking lot after the game. I was out for a few seconds, then had violent nausea and vomiting, along with cold sweats. Then, I felt fine. I must say that I smoked some mj after the game, and Im wondering if this is something I should have checked out? Was this a seizure, or could it be my heart, of was it dehydration from exercise, or all of the above. I have never had a seizure before, and I wonder if being on an anticonvulsant could have some effect like this.
Any feedback would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Justin

I would certainly have it checked out. Some of the side effects from Lamictal are dizziness and loss of balance. However, the drug coupled with the dehydration could have been a factor too. I think if you blacked out, you certainly need to see the doctor who prescribes the lamictal for you, just to be on the safe side.

Good luck!
P

weasel · 05-21-2004, 03:44 PM

pretty much what polaris said........but i know that a lot of these meds you have to take it easy with excercise and make sure you are very well hydrated. i find that i have to keep out of the sun as much as i can as well.........i over heat very quickly......

justin1 · 05-24-2004, 12:01 PM

Update: there has not been any new development on this front; no new fainting spells over the last few days (but also no intense exercise). How much does of a role does diet play in these spells? Is there anything in particular I can eat regularly to pervent this from happening again? I have increased my hydration and that seems to have helped, and I talked to my doctor who said that it is pretty common to pass out after intense exertion (esp. when on medications and not properly hydrated.) Thanks for the concern; maybe I will take it easy next time.

J

sjuicyog · 05-25-2004, 04:41 PM

Stop taking lamactil. I just got off of it and withdrawel was pretty bad. It made me lose my hair and got me so dizzy and sometimes i felt like i had the flue. I only took it for 2 weeks. Be careful.