Hi

I have been diagnosed with bipolar 2, and read that it is debatable how effective ADs are for the severe depression alongside and whether they worsen/cause cycling in the long run. Although I note some people feel they may be okay with a mood stabiliser alongside.

As well as a mood stabiliser I'm going to suggest an anti psychotic to treat the depression. I'm thinking low dose abilify, or vraylar (rexulti not available in the UK). Does anyone have experience for using these at a low dose to specifically treat depression whilst trying to avoid hypomania? The only thing that ever worked for me in this respect was riluzole.

However I'm concerned that these dopamine boosters may 'poop out'? Perhaps I can lengthen the time they are effective by dosing every 2/3 days? (I note they both have long half lives).