Hi I.Y.M.,

They've tried almost all the meds on me as well over the past 2+ years. The combo that has finally worked for me came about only a month ago. Just before the last drug that was added and was my miracle drug, my pdoc had suggested ECT since I too was treatment resistant. I was scared at that point. I have heard it can erase short and long term memory...and it doesn't distinguish between good or bad memories. I would put that on my list after I had tried every possible med combo. And with so many out there, I think there are probably a few more you could try.

Cymbalta was the miracle drug when added to my Geodon, Cogentin, and diazepam. I finally shook off the 2 years of depression (with one manic episode for about 9 weeks this time last year). I am now neither manic nor depressed.

Are you on an anti-depressant? I've also been on Lamictal (which did nothing to help my mood swings) and lithium (which nearly destroyed my thyroid). So I'm no longer on a mood stabilizer, but I'm doing great. I think Geodon keeps the Cymbalta from sending me into mania.

All this to say, don't give up. I'm living proof that sometimes treatment resistant bipolar is just a prescription away from being cured. Trying to be patient is maddening though I realize. Ask for another combo, but if you're really convinced that nothing can help you, I would talk to your doc about ECT. Another option is an implant they put inside your brain that affects the mood center and can lift major depression. That would be very last on my list though and only if your insurance would cover it.

I'm sending you hope and encouragement. Don't give up.