Is it Possible to Only Take Meds... - Bipolar Disorder Message Board

fineanddandy · 09-18-2007, 02:56 AM

Hi all,

Sorry for starting two threads back to back, but I thought it would be easier to handle my 2 questions in separate threads. So, here goes:

Is it possible to only take mood stabilizers on an "as needed" basis instead of taking them all the time? I'm wondering if there are any that can quickly bring hypomania to an end.

About me - Depression has always been my major problem but Zoloft is a miracle drug for that. While on Zoloft, depression isn't really a problem. However, about twice a year, I'll have a hypomanic episode. I wish that I could report that I feel good during those episodes, but I absolutely do NOT. I get extremely irritable, agitated, have racing thoughts, and have the worst insomnia. As the insomnia continues, it becomes a "mixed episode" with depression in addition to the other symptoms.

HOWEVER, with all the experience I've had with this (lucky me), I've gotten pretty good at recognizing when an episode is beginning. Is it possible to only take mood stabilizers at those times and then quickly wean off of them?

Thanks for your input!

fineanddandy · 09-18-2007, 03:03 AM

PS. I know that research indicates that the more cycles a person has, the more likely they are to cycle rapidly and the BPD becomes harder to treat. But, I HATE taking mood stabilizers all the time. I detest them. Surely, there is a better way???!!!??? Also, one can't help but wonder if that research was funded by drug companies who want you to believe that you must take their drugs.

And, yes, I'm in one of my hypomanic states right now so, yes, my thinking is probably distorted.

jules3 · 09-18-2007, 05:15 AM

you know, you sound alot like my 21 yr old son..when hes manic he has all the symptoms you describe and suffers mostly from depression and takes zoloft. he has alot of rage and anger and bad bad insomnia when hes manic..which he is now. im at my wits end with him. he is on topamax zoloft and trazadone or visteral to sleep..he cant take any narcotics becasue of past abuse.

Paige1989 · 09-18-2007, 08:18 AM

fineanddandy,

I've tried the as-needed basis thing...it's never worked for me. The only as-needed medication I'm on currently is Ativan for anxiety. I would advise taking any medications prescribed on a daily basis and if you don't like a certain med, talk to your pdoc about it, but don't just stop taking it regularly and go for sporadical needs.

~~Paige

fineanddandy · 09-18-2007, 08:39 AM

Thank you both for your responses. I appreciate the input.

Jules, it doesn't sound like the topamax is doing it's job if your son is still having manic episodes. Or, does he not take it regularly?