new - Bipolar Disorder Message Board

chickenwing32 · 09-17-2007, 11:19 PM

Hi, I'm new to this forum. I was just diagnosed today with a mild case of type II bi polar disorder. I am scared and overwhelmed. I was perscribed depakote and have read thru some of the side effects and it is adding to my fears. I already have a problem with weight gain (due to the disorder) amd hair loss is a big fear for me (I am a hairstylist). Any advice?

PamalaLauren · 09-18-2007, 12:05 AM

If you're truely worried about the side effects I suggest going ahead and talking to the doctor about it and what if any action you can take in regards to it. For instance perhaps you can get a different medication? Also the doctor will explain the likelihood of the side effects happening.

For my husband he experiences only one side effect for one medication (he takes three). So sometimes they don't happen at all. In a way you kind of have to try them out before you can really find out what will happen.

goody2shuz · 09-18-2007, 06:30 AM

The previous poster is right. My daughter has tried various meds and after I worried about the side effects that others spoke about and her not having them I came to the conclusion that everybody reacts differently to a med.

So I would give the med a try and if you encounter a problem then work with your doctor to find a different med.

My daughter started Seroquel and we were told it would knock out a horse....well since day one it didn't do that to her. She now takes 275mgs in the morning and 350mgs at night. Some here cannot even tolerate 25mgs!!

So....the rule of thumb is to give each med a fighting chance otherwise you will never be able to find the right one for you.

Good luck ~ Goody

chickenwing32 · 09-18-2007, 07:43 PM

Thanks for the advice. I will give it a try, who knows it could be great. I'm so glad I found this forum, it's nice to know there is support out there.

Quote:

Originally Posted by goody2shuz

The previous poster is right. My daughter has tried various meds and after I worried about the side effects that others spoke about and her not having them I came to the conclusion that everybody reacts differently to a med.

So I would give the med a try and if you encounter a problem then work with your doctor to find a different med.

My daughter started Seroquel and we were told it would knock out a horse....well since day one it didn't do that to her. She now takes 275mgs in the morning and 350mgs at night. Some here cannot even tolerate 25mgs!!

So....the rule of thumb is to give each med a fighting chance otherwise you will never be able to find the right one for you.

Good luck ~ Goody

chickenwing32 · 09-18-2007, 07:46 PM

Thanks for the reply, and I will give it a go. It's a comfort to know there is alot of support and info out there from people with first hasnd experience. Thanks!

Quote:

Originally Posted by goody2shuz

The previous poster is right. My daughter has tried various meds and after I worried about the side effects that others spoke about and her not having them I came to the conclusion that everybody reacts differently to a med.

So I would give the med a try and if you encounter a problem then work with your doctor to find a different med.

My daughter started Seroquel and we were told it would knock out a horse....well since day one it didn't do that to her. She now takes 275mgs in the morning and 350mgs at night. Some here cannot even tolerate 25mgs!!

So....the rule of thumb is to give each med a fighting chance otherwise you will never be able to find the right one for you.

Good luck ~ Goody