I can haz lithium?

[lightningxsnow]

(I also posted this to ask_me_anything , so I'm sorry if you're seeing it twice.)

Has anyone here been on Lithium?

I have a non-bipolar I form of bipolar (probably bipolar NOS, from the looks of it). I get mixed states, hardcore depression, and hypomania. I'm rapid cycling, but not ultra-rapid; my moods last from about 2 weeks to 4 months. I'm on Zoloft and Zyprexa

Comments

[ak_blackcap]

It sounds like I have a similar symptoms profile to you. My doctors talk about calling it NOS but always revert to bipolar II. I started on Lithium (for four years) and it works pretty well, but I've found Lamictal to be a much better drug for me. It's much better than Lithium against depression, but it doesn't do much against mania. It's side effect profile is pretty low, too, though everyone's different.

[kalliope_us]

I am on lithium and depakote. Lithium isn't supposed to be that helpful for rapid cycling, but very helpful for bad depression/suicidalness. The only side effect I have from lithium is some bladder problems but that clears up when I minimize salt. Lithium can cause thyroid and kidney problems--I've been lucky--and it's very important to keep up with the blood work.

[lessthancrazy]

I have been taking Lithiun for about 6 months. At first my hands shook with Tremors so bad, the doctor lowered the dose for about 2 months and then raised it again and so far I have been fine. My Dr told me that Lithium is good for cycling becuase it calms the mania part. I also take Lamictal and have for several years which has not helped my cycling. I think it would be worth a try and I hope it does well for you.

elaine

[manicmonkeygirl]

I think trying things is the best way to know what will work. Everyone has such different experiences and reactions. These meds are so unpredictable. I have been on Lithium for more than a year. For me it is one of the only things that has seemed to have any effect - but it is only helping slightly. I was also on Lamictal and abilify - got off those recently - I was having side effects and got to the point where I couldn't work/think. Good luck with the experiment, give it a go - track your progress along the way.