Lamictal did wonders for me. I don't see why your pdoc would say no because of the rash, it's really not that common. After I was diagnosed I read every book I could about bipolar. It was very helpful in terms of enabling me to accept my diagnosis and make a plan for my future. It seems that the people that accept their diagnosis and are proactive with their own treatment are able to lead healthy and productive lives. Bipolar sucks but it's not all gloom and doom, if you do what you need to do.