I was diagnosed with BP2 and PTSD a couple of years ago, have a strong family history and typically only seek treatment when depressed, sound familiar???
The depression started three years ago, I tried Lexapro which helped somewhat but it's seem to really escalate the mania about seven months later so I came off of it. Ive also tried Wellbutrin but couldn't handle the headache/side effects.
I was started on Lamictal 25mg a week and a half ago to be taken every night and the only side effect of experience been so far is some insomnia, however I feel more tired and depressed and don't increase my dosage to 50mg until next week.
I've been reading some older posts on here but just wondering if anyone had any perspective for me. It is really scary to be reading how familiar are all of the stories sounds when people compare themselves to guinea pigs and medical experiments especially after watching my family member go through this and now experiencing myself, I'm terrified and so discouraged.
I agreed to try this because obviously I feel so lousy, but also I'm hoping that it keeps me from having distractive behavior that know in hindsight looking back I can admit to, but when I'm going through it I cannot.
I have a great life and wonderful people around me and really don't want to jeopardize it or burden anyone with what I'm going through. Thanks for listening
How long until Lamictal works?
Question posted by P77 on 31 March 2017
Last updated on 31 March 2017
Answers
P77; Really there are too many variables on how fast the Lamactil well kicks in different on many people and this is why also they start you very low then gradually increase the dose and continue to until the best results from the medication. And it seems like most that have pretty good luck can be anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks.
Just want to point out something to you this is a great place for current information for you on medications and what others are doing but do yourself a favor. I have always noticed many older post are very negative on many different medications and a good part of that is in there thinking you have to go into this open minded and really want help. And almost the majority of people that post on many things are the upset or very negative post. Please don't take these to heart it seems like the success people rarely come in and tell us how well the same medications are helping them. So don't take everything at face value. I would have to say most people really do very good on their problems and medications they are taking. Or in many cases what we take is called a cocktail when you have to take 3 or so medication at the same time. But we have really come a long way from years ago and tons of newer medications. And also there are a small thing you can do to help yourself be it reading about your condition. some mild exercise just walking down the block and back.You name it but keeping the mind busy is always a good idea. Anyway Feel free to come back anytime and chat with anyone here we have a great bunch of people here and all of us can more or less relate to each other. And it does help to have others that know what you're going through. So please bookmark this spot so you can always find your way back and let us know how you are doing. Chuck1957
STAY POSITIVE, KEEP THE FAITH IN WHATEVER YOU BELIEVE IN AND
AVOID NEGATIVE PEOPLE AND SITUATIONS. chuck
Thanks Chuck. I appreciate the guidance. Sadly it's easier to share this with strangers who can actually relate vs those who you are surrounded by who just don't get it.
I am very physically active and that's almost my "keep myself in check" mechanism that even if I'm forcing myself to, I always do.
Thanks again and stay well!
P77 my son's wife was on this med for a few months and felt it worked great. They do up it until you are at a dose that is working for you. She had no side effects.
Few months later she stopped it prior to getting pregnant. Just remember this too shall pass and you will start feeling better.
P77 my son's wife was on this med for a few months and felt it worked great. They do up it until you are at a dose that is working for you. She had no side effects.
Few months later she stopped it prior to getting pregnant. Just remember this too shall pass and you will start feeling better.
Thank you Cleopatra
Related topics
lamictal, depression, bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, treatment, diagnosis, family
Further information
- Lamictal uses and safety info
- Lamictal prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Lamictal (detailed)
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