Toben: Second Opinion

Joanne's uncle Otis is a psychiatrist.  The last few times we have been together there hasn't been much of an opportunity to "talk shop" as they say.  But he and Martha were in town visiting with Joanne's folks and we had a big BBQ the other night and all got to hang out. So Otis and I got to chat for about half an hour.  Very interesting!  Told him about my meds and he had the following to say:

Zyprexa is the most powerful and effective drug for bi-polar.  Yes,the side effects are a drag (weight gain, cholesterol, high blood pressure) but the stuff flat out works.  If you can treat/deal with the side effects it's tough to beat. I totally concur!  Zyprexa, as much as I hate the side effects, keeps me sane.  Simple as that.  When I tried to kick it I totally lost it.  Now I am back on a half dose and maintaining, even in the midst of a stressful time.

Buspar is pretty light-weight.  Compared to Zyprexa, Buspar is far, far less powerful and effective.  Ditto!  I haven't noticed the Buspar has done anything for me.  I see my psychiatrist tomorrow and expect to stop taking it.

Paxil is really good for social anxiety but can produce hypo-mania in some patients.  Never had a problem with Paxil and I think it works pretty well for me. 

Wellbutrine is totally bad stuff for bi-polar patients and can trigger mania.  That is totally my experience.  When I was on it at the beginning of my journey into pharmaceuticals the Wellbutrine only made things worse.  So glad I got off that stuff!

Abilify is good stuff.  He said that he has a lot of bi-polar patients on a combo of Zyprexa and Abilify.  Problem is Abilify is even more expensive than Zyprexa!

He had some other interesting things to say and I REALLY APPRECIATE the time we had together.  It was like getting a second opinion for free. Thanks Uncle Otis!

Comments

[ginger]

curious: did you discuss topamax at all?

[Joelle den Dulk]

I just found your site. Thank you for being vulnerable and open with an often "taboo" topic in Christian circles. My husband suffers from severe depression and social phobias. He's been on a plethoria of medication these last 7 years of our marriage. He's functioning, but somehow I wish I could have more of him present. I look foward to scanning your blog in the months to come. By the way...I'm a former Coloradian..transplanted to Central Florida by marriage...sure do miss those mountains! Thank you again for sharing from your hearts.