Lamictal & Lithium--Anyone taking both? - Bipolar Disorder Message Board

gav_73 · 10-06-2006, 07:44 PM

Hi gang,

I don't post new threads very often, but today my pdoc added Lamictal to my current low dose of 600mg of Lithium, on which I have felt much progress. As many of you probably know from reading my comments, I had previously experienced some negative side effects on the Lithium when it was increased due to a reaction with Benadryl. Although I have been feeling much better, I am still having some issues with sudden fits of anger, irritablity, etc. that we (the doc and I) both felt needed to still be nipped in the bud. I am over the depression after being on the meds, but the symptoms of hypomania are beginning to show up, hence the new addition of Lamictal.

The thing is, I'm very afraid of this medication. I am apparently pretty sensitive to medications--the Lithium side effects on such a low dose, some of which I still experience; from a low, 25mg dose of Seroquel (for insomnia), I was knocked on my butt for 15 hours! The effect of the Seroquel was so extreme that I made my husband check my breathing when I slept. It was terrifying. After all I've read about Lamictal, I am really afraid of it, e.g. the rash (not so much the deadly one as I am afraid of just getting a rash at all, one that might not go away for a month), anxiety, headaches, etc. I live a very hectic, public life, and can't afford to get a month-long rash or be up all night with anxiety or headaches.

Is anyone taking these two medications at the same time? More importantly, does anyone take Lamictal that can report a successful and positive experience with it, or even a bad one? I just want to know what to expect.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

ShoelessTroy · 10-08-2006, 12:33 AM

I've been taking Lamictal for about 2 months now and I've been at 200mg for about 3 weeks and I have experienced no side effects, other than weight loss. This is the most stable I've ever been. I'm alson taking 100mg of Zoloft and 1 mg of Klonopin. Google askapatient

chaser3968 · 10-08-2006, 08:24 AM

I am on both and I have never felt so good. The combination has been the best thing i have ever done. I am also on 1mg of klonopin for anxiety but this is not due to my medicines. Good luck to you.

gav_73 · 10-08-2006, 08:41 AM

WOW! Thanks, guys. That makes me very hopeful. I just see so many posts on here about these terrible side effects, I really wanted to hear from some people with success. I'm really happy for your input.

So far, so good over here. It's my third day and I haven't had any trouble at all (knock on wood), no anxiety or trouble sleeping, no headaches.

Anyway, thanks again. I'll keep everyone posted on my progress.

goody2shuz · 10-08-2006, 08:48 AM

Hi, Gav

I understand your concerns about the Lamictal, as I share the same of having Erin titrating up on it. The thing is, if it is titrated slowly, you should have no problems and the benefits of the med should far outweigh the concerns.

Just be sure to inform your pdoc of your hypersensitivity and tell him that you will feel much more comfortable if he would titrate you slower than the usual patient knowing that. IF you have any signs of a rash (notice how I said IF

) DO NOT take another dose until it is evaluated by your pdoc or dermatologist.

Erin is still on 25mgs for over 6 weeks now since we are titrating her at a much slower pace....AND we find that with each icrease the first few days will elicit some increased irritability which eventually levels off but we know the need for further titration because she still has the mixed states.

I hope this makes you fel better.

(((HUGS))) ~ Goody