When I first started Lamictal a year ago, I had amazing results at 200mg. After 3 months, the effect wore off. I wonder if it was a "placebo" effect? Now I'm at 600 mg and am still having mixed episodes but primarily severe depression. My pdoc says the average bp is on 4.2 meds. I have many of them and no relief. At 900 mg of lithium I began to experience profound confusion; also with seroquil. Abilify sent my hypo-mania through the roof. I am despairing of finding a med or combination of meds that will work. I haven't tried the new ones 'cuz they are so expensive and I don't have insurance. Am starting therapy again soon. That helps, some. Working with my Alanon sponsor helps too. I wish there was a magic pill that would make all this go away. I want a life; a normal life, whatever that is.